Flying by the Seat of Our Pants: Conversations of Comfort, Motivation, and Building Safe Spaces at an All-Male Campus

M2300

Historically, writing centers have occupied a “traditionally” feminine space. That very statement—while paraphrased from multiple articles—is problematic and concerning, but went situated at an all-male institute, it is downright confusing for new consultants. Aspects of this confusion played out in almost every class session of the training course, so often that three points—comfort, motivation, and building safe spaces—became a mix of lightning rods and touchstones, depending on the day and the reading. Instead of simply accepting what has been written and said, the new consultant decided to start building their own narrative. This panel is the first step. Each of panelists have selected a major point to discuss. They hope to bring more voices into the room and to share their ideas and frustrations outside of an echo chamber.