Back in October of 2016, I became a part of one of my university’s many on-campus writing centers. Little did I know, however, that I would learn about so much more than just how to help students improve their writing.

Over the many months that I’ve been a writing tutor, I’ve come to love the “perks” that my job has come with; I have taken this job and truly allowed for it to influence my own life and identity, and here’s why:

1. My work always feels meaningful

I think that this is one of the biggest things that keeps me going through particularly busy nights. I am a people-person, all the way down to my core, so being able to have intimate discussions with them about how I can best help them improve their writing and also their confidence in their abilities is extremely fulfilling.

When a student thanks me for everything I’ve done for them, I can’t help but smile because I know I’m making a positive impact on someone’s life.

2. I’m preparing myself for my dream career.

I’ve always had a passion for both English and helping others. Way back in middle school, I began researching careers that would allow for me to combine my interests, and I stumbled upon becoming an editor. Since then, I’ve always known that becoming an editor was what I wanted to do with my life, especially because it would allow for me to aid others in sharing their voices with the world in an accessible and genuine way.

As a tutor, I actively utilize skills that I know are giving me valuable experiences I can carry forward into my professional life.

3. I get to have unique conversations

Being a writing tutor is much more than just “correcting” someone’s paper. There have been several occasions in which I’ve had the immense pleasure and privilege to engage with students in very complex, but eye-opening discussions about many different issues, both focusing on and related to their current writing.

These particularly immersive sessions allow for me to better understand my peers and the perspectives that they bring to the world.

4. I interact with a multitude of people

Much like I mentioned in my previous statement, I see A LOT of students on a weekly basis. Oftentimes, I don’t assist students that I’ve worked with before, which means that I come into contact with those that have different worldviews, beliefs, cultures, life experiences, identities, and backgrounds than my own.

I learn a lot about the world and individual people through my sessions, which makes me feel more well-rounded and in touch with both my university community but also humanity at large.

5. I’m learning about and honing in on vital personal skills

This is something that I’ll always be extremely appreciative of. As a tutor, I continue to learn technical skills in terms of educational and written techniques; however, I also gain insights into personal skills. I used to be very nervous about speaking with people (I’m definitely still shy, but not as much as I was), especially strangers, but my job requires me to do so.

My comfort zone and capabilities are, in a good way, being challenged and broadened, and I’m very glad to have a job that does so.