Writing is like Basketball (sort of)

 I am terrible at basketball.  I joined my school’s team in the seventh grade, and I am pretty sure I set a new record for number of turnovers in a game.  I took my position as point guard VERY seriously, and I practiced my little heart out for hours on end, but I just could not seem to get it.  My coach worked with me tirelessly as I dribbled back and forth across the court, hoping desperately that this would be the time I would make my lay-up.  Our team made it to the championship game.  We lost, but I will always know that I tried my best to improve my skills.

 Writing is also a skill that requires time and energy.  Just like the perfect jump shot, a well-argued thesis statement and an effective structure do not come easily.  I think it is important to remember that good writing takes practice.  It does not just emerge from within when we want it to.  The writing tutors can certainly coach; we have been trained to.  We can run drills and suggest techniques.  But, ultimately, it is the writer who needs to take the ball the rest of the way to the basket.

   - Sasha (Tempe tutor)