Graduate Student Writing Programs
The Graduate College offers writing programs that help graduate students and postdoctoral scholars strengthen their writing skills, build productive habits and make meaningful progress on academic and professional writing projects. Through workshops, accountability groups and structured writing sessions, participants can develop sustainable writing practices in a supportive community.
Graduate Student Writing Accountability Group
The Graduate Student Writing Accountability Group sessions support graduate students and postdoctoral scholars as they work toward their writing goals in a structured, supportive environment.
Whether you’re working on seminar papers, theses, dissertations, conference proposals, creative writing or other academic projects, these free sessions provide dedicated writing time, accountability and community.
Through these sessions, participants can connect with fellow graduate students and scholars across the university, share goals and build sustainable writing habits. Since launching in 2024, students from colleges across UC have participated in sessions.
Presented in partnership with the Taft Research Center, the Academic Writing Center and the Graduate College.
Graduate Student Writing Accountability Group sessions are designed to help participants stay focused and make meaningful progress on their writing projects. Each session typically includes:
- Goal setting at the start of the session
- Structured writing blocks using the Pomodoro method
- Short breaks throughout the session
- A supportive and quiet writing environment
- Opportunities to connect with other graduate students and postdoctoral scholars
- Free lunch during select sessions, plus coffee and tea throughout the day
Participants are welcome to stay the full session or drop in as their schedule allows.
Participant Feedback and Outcomes
- 100% of survey respondents said attending sessions helped them make more progress on their writing than they would have otherwise.
- 88% of attendees reported making strong or very strong progress toward their writing goals during sessions.
“Overall terrific experience. I have gone to several already. I find them helpful and it’s nice to engage with students in other UC programs.”
“It’s a good program for those looking for the gentle pressure of accountability.”
“Really easy to get into a groove and just get things down onto the page.”
“I really enjoyed the in-person experience, where we had a quiet room with a window, tea and set intentions.”
Participant Accomplishments
Participants have used sessions to make meaningful progress on a variety of academic and professional writing projects, including:
- Complete dissertation revisions
- Finish conference papers
- Draft seminar assignments
- Revise journal submissions
- Build consistent writing habits
- Connect with peers for academic support and advice
Examples shared by participants include:
“I was able to complete about 37 pages of revisions, which is about 25% of my dissertation.”
“Literally got both papers finished. It was a really nice space to be dedicated to work.”
“Ended up writing a total of nine pages.”
Do I have to stay the whole time?
No. Participants are welcome to stay for the full session or drop in as their schedule allows.
I’ve never attended before. Can I still come?
Yes. Sessions are open to all graduate students and postdoctoral scholars at UC, including first-time participants.
Do I need to RSVP?
RSVPs through GetInvolved UC are encouraged so organizers can plan for lunch and seating. However, drop-ins are always welcome.
What should I bring?
Required:
- Your preferred writing tool (laptop, notebook, etc.)
- A charger if you plan to stay for an extended period
Recommended:
- Headphones
- A jacket or sweater
- Snacks for before or after lunch
What is the writing structure like?
Sessions begin with goal setting and follow a Pomodoro-style format with focused writing blocks and short breaks throughout the day. Lunch is followed by a brief goal check-in before writing resumes.
Tuesday, June 16, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Clifton Court Hall 4290. Register for the June 16 session.
Tuesday, June 23, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Clifton Court Hall 4290. Register for the June 23 session.
Tuesday, July 21, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Clifton Court Hall 4290. Register for the July 21 session.
Stay tuned for information about fall sessions. Additional dates, times and registration details will be shared soon.
Graduate Writing Workshop
Graduate Writing Workshops provide practical guidance and support for graduate-level writing across disciplines. Workshop topics vary throughout the year and may focus on:
- Revision strategies
- Academic writing techniques
- Writing productivity
- Publication preparation
- Final paper support
- Thesis and dissertation writing
- Writing processes and organization
Sessions are designed to help graduate students strengthen their writing, develop effective strategies and make progress on academic and professional projects in a supportive learning environment.
Open to all graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
Stay tuned for information about fall workshops. Additional dates, times and registration details will be shared soon.
Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars can explore additional university resources related to academic writing, research, career preparation and dissertation support through the Graduate College Resource Guide.
Resources include:
Transportation and Parking
Free UC shuttle services are available for students with a valid UC ID, including routes between West and Medical campuses. Limited reciprocity parking may also be available for UC permit holders when space permits. Reciprocity parking is limited to two hours between 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Learn more about parking and transportation.
Contact
Please email Brandilyn Pham, Graduate College Program Manager, at gsdevelop@ucmail.uc.edu with questions.