Administrative Staff:
Dr. Carolyn Wisniewski, Director (she/her)
As an administrator, teacher, and scholar, I’m committed to the learning that takes place during the one-to-one teaching of writing. Before joining the Workshop as its Director in 2015, I worked in four university writing centers, an athletic tutoring center, and a non-profit community literacy center. I have taught undergraduate and graduate courses in persuasive writing, public writing, writing research methods, composition theory and pedagogy, and writing center theory, research, and practice. My recent research focuses on two areas: (1) response to student writing and (2) writing center tutorial modalities and technologies. My work examining how language ideologies affect TAs’ and tutors’ values and practices for responding to student writing has appeared in publications like Research in the Teaching of English and Journal of Response to Writing, and my article “Generous Audience, Activist, Evaluator: Tutor-Teachers’ Knowledge, Practices, and Values for Response to Writing” won the 2025 International Writing Centers Association’s Outstanding Article Award. My co-authored research (with a team of writing center consultants) comparing face-to-face and synchronous online tutorials has appeared in The Writing Center Journal, and I have a forthcoming article comparing experiences across in-person, live online, and asynchronous online tutorial modes. Language(s): English
Kim S., Office Support Specialist (she/her)
I am here to welcome you to the Writers Workshop! I am available to answer questions, help schedule appointments, and direct you to resources to help you with your writing. If there’s something you want to know more about, I will find the answer!
I work for the Center for Writing Studies and the Writers Workshop providing marketing and management support as they help the entire campus with various writing-related needs. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management (with a minor in Entrepreneurship) from Eastern Illinois University, and an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Lake Land College. I’ve held previous positions in banking, retail, and even a haunted house (despite this, I still move through them as quickly as possible!).
I have little free time due to my many roles as mom, wife, home manager, and parishioner. When I do have time to relax, I find myself catching up on my ever-growing YouTube “Watch Later” list or pursuing creative outlets including writing, reading, graphic design, and organizing spaces in my home. Language(s): English
Megan Cole, Associate Director (she/her)
I have been teaching and working with student writers here at UIUC for 9 years, first as a PhD student in the Literature program and now as a Lecturer in the English Department. I especially enjoy helping writers discover their unique voice, experiment with different genres, and develop writing habits and values. My literature research focuses on gender and sexuality in eighteenth-century British literature, and I have also been a part of research projects studying composition courses and library instructional resources here at UIUC. When not talking about writing and reading, I enjoy watching sports, working jigsaw puzzles, and planning my next big travel adventure. Language(s): English
Emily M., Assistant Director (she/her) Communication
I am a doctoral candidate in Communication and delighted to be an assistant director at the Writers Workshop. My research is concerned with topics relevant to interpersonal communication, health, and mediated communication technologies. My published work can be found in avenues such as Communication Research, New Media & Society, and Health Communication. I am also a co-managing editor for the Sex and Psychology blog and podcast, where we focus on making sex-related research accessible. At the Writers Workshop, I strive to find ways to best support writers and writing consultants through understanding what kinds of messages best support them and their work. Language(s): English
Kirsten J., Assistant Director (she/her) Library and Information Science
Throughout nearly four years with the Writers Workshop, I have held the roles of both undergraduate peer tutor and graduate consultant, and I’m now excited to step into the role of assistant director. I recently completed my M.S. in Library and Information Science here at UIUC and am now pursuing an M.A. in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education. My roles on campus are grounded in my interest in student success: alongside the Writers Workshop, I collaborate with the Main Library’s student success team to facilitate programming and resources to help fulfill student needs and make the library a more inviting and inclusive environment. I am dedicated to cultivating welcoming, accessible spaces on campus, and that dedication guides my support for both writers and consultants in the Writers Workshop. Language(s): English
Keira B., Office Assistant (she/her)
Hi! My name is Keira, and I am a sophomore I-Health major with a minor in Disability Studies on the pre-PT track. In my free time, I love reading, staying active, watching movies with friends, and traveling around the world. I’m so excited to collaborate with the Writers Workshop and meet our writers this semester! Language(s): English
Mariah C., Office Assistant (she/her)
Hi! My name is Mariah and I am a junior on the pre-law track. I’m majoring in History with minors in Legal Studies and Political Science. In my free time I love to read, watch new movies, and spend time in the sun! Language(s): English
Martha S., Office Assistant (she/her)
I’m a political science major with a minor in classics. I love reading, thrifting, and spending time at the beach! In the future, I hope to work in the public health sector as a policy analyst. Language(s): English
Melania M., Office Assistant (they/she)
I’m a junior Sociology major, with a minor in Global Markets and Society. Outside of school, I love staying involved in music, fashion, and the arts. Language(s): English, Polish
Ryann I., Office Assistant (she/her)
Hi! My name is Ryann, and I am a senior studying Psychology on a pre-law track. In my free time, I like to read books, watch movies, and hang out with friends! Language(s): English
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Consultants:
Alex T. (she/her) Majors: Clinical Psychology & Creative Writing
Hi! I am a junior majoring in psychology and creative writing! I have experience editing research papers as an editor in Psych Bites (a psychology research club), and I enjoy helping students during any stage in their writing process, such as brainstorming, partial first drafts, and full drafts. I have the most experience in English- and Creative Writing-based assignments and personal statements for applications; however, I’m interested in helping students from any background! I look forward to working with you to address any concerns you may have! Language: English, Spanish (beginner in speech/writing, intermediate in reading)
Amar D. (they/them) PhD in English
I am a PhD student in Literary Studies. I worked as a tutor during my time as an undergraduate at UC Santa Barbara and have experience working with conference papers, essays for humanities and social sciences classes, creative writing, application materials, and more. I have lots of experience working with students at any stage of the writing process whether it be brainstorming, drafting, or editing. I am deeply committed to building confidence in young writers and have worked with many ESL students, especially those for whom Spanish or Mandarin is a first language. I have taught RHET 105 and ENGL 285 and have experience working with neurodiverse students and students of color of all ages. Language: English
Antonio H. (he/him) English/Writing Studies
I have taught Writing Across Media and first-year composition at multiple universities and have over six years of experience working in writing centers at three different institutions. I support writers with a wide range of projects, including research papers, personal statements, cover letters, theses and dissertations, STEM papers, and creative assignments. I hold a BA in Psychology & English, an MA in English with a specialization in Medieval Literature, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Writing Studies. I have presented at national conferences and published peer‑reviewed articles. My strengths include helping writers brainstorm and outline, develop and organize their ideas, and revise for clarity and purpose. I welcome writers from all disciplines and am committed to supporting neurodivergent writers and writers with disabilities. Language(s): English
Arianna G. (she/her) Majors: English & Advertising
Hi! I’m a senior pursuing a dual-degree in Advertising and English, and this is my second year as an undergraduate consultant at the Writers’ Workshop. I also serve as a Senior Copyeditor for The Daily Illini, editing print and online content for AP style, clarity, and structure. I love helping students at every stage of the writing process, and I’m comfortable working with everything from academic essays and research papers to personal statements and creative work. I’m excited to help you sharpen your argument, find your voice, and feel more confident in your writing! Language: English
Bailey J. (she/her) Major: English; Minors: Computer Science and Music
Hello! I am a junior English major with minors in Computer Science and Music. I have lots of experience with humanities and fine arts writing, but my interdisciplinary background has allowed me to become familiar with research-based and technical writing as well. I particularly enjoy assisting with brainstorming, citations, and developing rhetorical awareness. I welcome students of all disciplines and backgrounds, and my goal is to help you develop your unique voice and confidence as a writer. Whether you’re in the early stages or working on final touches, I look forward to helping you throughout the writing process and achieving your goals! Language(s): English
Bill S. (they/them) PhD in Social Psychology, with minors in Cognitive and Quantitative Psychology
Bill is a PhD student in Psychology. As an undergraduate, they held concentrations or minors in Interdisciplinary Studies and Creative Writing. Their research incorporates quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods to study how people stereotype others. Bill has taught courses on research methods, social psychology, and diversity and has reviewed articles for Fat Studies, Psychology of Women Quarterly, Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, and Evolutionary Studies & Higher Education. Bill has a lot of experience consulting for graduate school statements and research papers and also enjoys creative writing and other artistic endeavors. Language(s): English, Spanish (limited)
Daniel R. (he/him) History
I have over five years of experience as a teaching assistant in the history department, where I have taught undergraduates of all levels. I especially enjoy working with non-native English writers and helping them navigate the norms of American academic writing. In my capacity as a union organizer, I have written several successful grant applications, and I have navigated a number of fellowship and program applications of my own. I especially enjoy the early stages of writing (brainstorming, talking through ideas, and figuring out how to organize them) and I’m happy to work across a range of genres, though I’m particularly experienced helping undergraduates with course papers and applications and working with graduate students on dissertation and research proposals, fellowship applications, scholarships, and grad school materials. I welcome the chance to work with neurodivergent writers and writers from a range of backgrounds, and I’m glad to adapt sessions to whatever approach works best for you. Language(s): English, Spanish
Daniela M. (she/her) Informatics
I am a PhD candidate in Informatics with two bachelor’s degrees in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, along with a minor in Natural Resource Conservation. With more than seven years of experience, I enjoy supporting writers at every stage of the writing process. I have previously worked with writers on class projects, research posters, journal and conference papers, personal statements, resumes, cover letters, fellowship applications, and grant proposals. I have taught courses in the Grainger College of Engineering and the School of Information Sciences, and I am excited to work with writers from all disciplines! Language(s): English
Diana T. (she/her) MFA in Creative Writing
Hi! I’m an MFA candidate in Creative Writing, concentrating in fiction. I’m currently the associate managing editor of UIUC’s literary magazine Ninth Letter, and I have previous experience as a copy editor, writing tutor, and Rhet 105 instructor. I’m most familiar with creative writing, application materials like personal statements and cover letters, and humanities-based papers, but I am happy to work with all writers! Wherever you are in the writing process, I’m here to help. Language(s): English
Ekangika M. (she/her) Major: Neuroscience; Minor: Political Science
I am a senior majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in Political Science. As a writer and editor, I have experience with research-based writing in the sciences and the humanities. I love engaging with diverse genres and disciplines and am eager to work with you at any stage of the writing process. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse and non-native English writers. Whether you’re drafting a personal statement, developing a research paper, or exploring a new idea, I’m always happy to listen and learn about your work. I look forward to helping you achieve your writing goals! Language(s): English
Erica K. (she/her) PhD Department of Communication – Rhetoric
Hi! I am a PhD student in the Department of Communication, where I study rhetoric and public discourse. My work draws on the humanities, but I enjoy working with writers across all disciplines. I especially enjoy helping with the early stages of writing, including brainstorming and organizing ideas, as well as proofreading and polishing final drafts. As an instructor, I have taught courses in public speaking, oral and written communication, social movement communication, and argumentation and debate. I have experience working with research papers, speeches, conference presentations, application materials, and course projects at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. I am especially passionate about supporting neurodivergent writers and creating a collaborative environment where all writers can develop strategies that work best for them! Language(s): English
Fredrick G. (he/him) English, Rhetoric, Writing & Culture
Hello! I am a second-year PHD student in the English Department with extensive tutoring and writing support experience. During my MA studies at NDSU, I worked as an undergraduate writing consultant and gained experience supporting students across different academic disciplines. As a TA, I have also taught first-year writing and advanced composition courses for both native and non-native speakers. I can assist you with research papers, literature reviews, proposals, CVs, resumes and argumentative papers from brainstorming to revision and proofreading. If you are looking for feedback on your work, I would be happy to help! Language(s): English, Twi/Fante/Ga-Adangbe
Graciela B. (she/her) History and Latina/o Studies with a minor in Spanish
Hello! I am an undergraduate writing consultant studying History and Latina/o Studies, and I have been a consultant with the Writers Workshop since Spring 2025! I love working with my fellow students and have experience helping writers across many different genres and throughout every stage of the writing process. I am most experienced in writing that requires analysis and incorporation of sources, argumentative papers, and application materials. Language(s): English, Spanish
Greg B. (he/him) Educational Policy, Organization, and Leadership
Hey there! I have worked with thousands of undergraduates from just about every discipline during my 10+ years in higher education, and interacting one-on-one with students is one of my great joys. My professional background is in theatre and film (you may have seen one of my performances in a movie or video game), but my real passion is for language and ideas. I have a BA in Philosophy and an MFA in Theatre, and I am pursuing a PhD in Philosophy of Education, so my fields of expertise obviously lean toward the arts and humanities. That said, my interests are broad, and I would love to help you express yourself thoroughly and thoughtfully in anything you’re working on. Language(s): English
Hannah C. (she/her) English/Literary Studies
I am a Ph.D. student in Literary Studies with an Asian American Studies minor. My research areas surround Asian American Literature and Poetry as well as Disability Studies. I have experience tutoring, teaching Rhetoric 105, working as a teaching assistant for Intro to Asian American Studies, and teaching Intro to Asian American Literature. I am familiar with papers in the humanities and personal statements. As a graduate of the Columbia Publishing Course where I studied book, magazine, and digital media publishing, I can also assist with publishing-related materials. As a tutor, I aim to support writers, writers with disabilities, and neurodiverse writers during any part of their writing process. Language(s): English
Hector I. (he/him) Major: Aerospace Engineering, Minor: Materials Science and Engineering
Jake B. (he/him) PhD in Linguistics
Hi! I am a PhD student in Linguistics with eight years of experience teaching English and academic writing to multilingual learners. I enjoy helping writers with brainstorming, organization, argument development, clarity, and revision. I have worked with students across disciplines, including biochemistry, law, health, and education, and I often support research papers, personal statements, motivation letters, CVs, fellowship and scholarship applications, and conference presentations. As a Fulbrighter and Government of Ireland scholar with two master’s degrees in Education and English language teaching, I hope to support you with care, curiosity, and practical strategies while also learning from your ideas and experiences. Language(s): English, Vietnamese, Spanish (beginner). Language(s): English, Vietnamese
Laurel M. (she/her) Major: Intradisciplinary Psychology; Minors: English and Criminology, Law, & Society
Hello! I am a senior studying Intradisciplinary Psychology with experience in the fields of English and Sociology. I am happy to help with any stage of the writing process, whether it be brainstorming, a partial draft, the first draft, editing, or the final review. I have experience with academic writing, such as essays and research papers, professional writing, such as resumes and cover letters, and application writing, such as ICTs, scholarships, and study abroad experiences. Whatever the writing is, I would love to work with you to create the best representation of your thoughts and ideas! Language(s): English
Logan O. (he/him) Major: Political Science; Minors: Spanish and Informatics
I have experience with writing from creative short story writing to long form research papers! I am always open to working with students in all stages of their writing, weather that is simply starting or polishing up their almost complete work! As someone with dyslexia, I am always open to helping students who have similar struggles! I also am able to work with students who may need help with Spanish or are a Spanish speaker! I am always open to working with anyone who requires help with any type of writing. Language(s): English, Intermediate Spanish (understanding and reading/writing)
Lydia O. (she/her) Dual degree in Speech and Hearing Science (AHS) and Spanish (LAS)
Hello! I am an undergraduate writer and researcher pursuing a dual degree in Speech and Hearing Science as well as Spanish. I have extensive experience tutoring English composition for both native and non-native writers. I’d be more than happy to assist with research, argumentative, and expository writing, from brainstorming to final drafts. I also enjoy working with application materials, including personal statements, ICT transfer essays, and study abroad applications. I am open to writers from all disciplines and love working with ESL writers! Language(s): English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, a little Mandarin (but not much)
Lyric R. (she/her) Major: Journalism, Minors: Political Science and Art & Design
Hi, I’m Lyric and this will be my fourth semester tutoring in the Writers Workshop! I am a junior majoring in Journalism with minors in Political Science and Art and Design. Outside of the workshop, I’m a reporter for Illinois Public Media the NPR member station in Central Illinois and I am the associate editor for Sweet Angel Baby Magazine, a creative lifestyle publication. As a consultant, I love helping writers bring their vision to life, from brainstorming all the way to the final edit. I have experience working with writing across many disciplines, but I especially enjoy working on personal statements and ICT applications! Language(s): English
MacKenzie G. (she/her/ella) PhD Student – Comparative and World Literature; Music and Sound Studies
I have worked at several Writing Centers at different universities across my time as a university student, and I love helping writers feel confident in structure, argument, and style of their writing. While I am prepared to offer support across disciplines and writing tasks, as a PhD student in Comparative Literature, I am best-equipped to provide feedback on writing in the humanities and social sciences. Language(s): English, Spanish
Macy H. (she/her) Major: Brain & Cognitive Neuroscience, Minors: Integrative Biology & Music
I love to work with all kinds of writers, but science writing is my favorite. I am the Editor-in-Chief the Undergraduate Neuroscience Journal, which focuses on IB, MCB, Bioengineering, and Psychology research writing. As a consultant, I am open to all disciplines, genres, and writing stages. I love working with passionate writers as well as finding ways to bring passion to hesitant ones. Language(s): English, American Sign Language
Maris D. (she/her) Veterinary Medicine
Michael G. (he/him) Sociology with minor in Political Science and Criminology, Law, and Society
Hi! I have two years of experience serving as a chief editor of undergraduate legal publications and a semester-worth of experience as chief editor of a creative writing journal. My major in Sociology and minor in Political Science give me a breadth of knowledge about the social sciences, and my experience as an editor gives me a good amount of skill to help identify what your instructors are looking for in your assignments. Additionally, I have personal experience with and a good understanding of personal statements for applications and would be happy to look over yours! Languages: English
Omar H. (he/him) Sociocultural Anthropology with minor in LLS
I am a PhD candidate in Anthropology researching the infrastructures of community sport. I enjoy working with writers at all stages of the writing process, and I’m most familiar with writing genres that are common in the Social Sciences and Ethnic Studies. I currently work as an academic coach with student-athletes here at UIUC, and I have experience working with students at a variety of different stages of their academic journey and across different disciplines as a TA in the anthropology department. Languages: English, Spanish
Peizhen W. (she/her) English
I (she/her) am a Ph.D. student in English Literature focusing on Digital Humanities (Literature + Programming), Science Fiction/Fantasy, Fan Studies, etc.. I hold a B.A. in English Literature from Tsinghua University. I have tutored in academic writing for five years, and have taught 100 and 200 level courses in writing and literary studies at UIUC. My research fields are highly interdisciplinary, and I am happy to work with students from humanities, STEM, fine arts, and other areas. Language(s): English, Mandarin Chinese
Sarah O. (she/her) Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
My name is Sarah and I am a fifth year PhD student in the Cognitive Neuroscience program! I have 4 years of experience working with students on their writing, including second language writing. I especially enjoy working on research proposals, application pieces (e.g., personal statements, CVs), and manuscripts. One of my strengths is helping students emphasize the most important points in their writing. I am excited to work with writers in any specialty! Language(s): English
Serena N. (she/her) English with minors in Political Science and Legal Studies
Hi! I’m a junior undergraduate student majoring in English with minors in political science and legal studies. This is my third semester as a consultant for the Writers Workshop. I have experience assisting with all parts of the writing process for course papers, application essays, and more. I especially enjoy assisting with brainstorming ideas. However, whether you’re outlining or making final edits, I look forward to helping you feel confident and supported throughout your writing journey! Language(s): English
Stephanie F. (she/her) English & Psychology with minor in Legal Studies
Hi! I am a sophomore majoring in English and Psychology. I have experience on the Undergraduate Law Review as a full-year writer, where I published a law note on Moody v. NetChoice. I enjoy helping students with the structure of their papers and the clarity of their reasoning. My favorite types of writing include personal statements and argumentative essays. I am fluent in Bulgarian and have an intermediate level of Spanish, so I am also very passionate about helping non-native speakers feel confident in their writing skills. I look forward to working with you! Language(s): English, Bulgarian (proficient), Spanish (intermediate)