Last week some university students who had read my recent blog post on ghost writing jokingly commented that they were tempted to try using a ghost writer after reading it since the latter are hard to catch! Clearly my warning had not been strong enough; reader beware: you may still be caught. Besides, what do you learn when others do your writing for you? Almost nothing – right!
An experienced teacher can sense it when a document is not written by you as they will know your level and style from in-class participation and writing, as well as other activities. Do not forget also that your writing should reflect your voice – not someone else’s. In any case, you need to improve your writing skills as that will help you in career-related course work and various contexts other than university. It is well known these days that employers seek and promote skilled communicators, especially skilled writers.
Finally, you are already paying a high price for your tuition in most cases. Why pay extra? If you feel you need extra help with your writing, ask your course instructor. Additionally, a librarian might help with sources and a writing tutor (such as those of the AUB Writing Center) may provide a second opinion, with specific advice on how to improve your writing. Writing centers such as this usually provide free consultations and may allow walk-ins though there is usually an organized appointment schedule. Writing tutors can comment on the clarity and organization of your ideas, or on your style, or both. Additionally, they can show you how to polish up formal citations for academic essays.
What would be shameful is asking others to do your writing for you. Asking for a second opinion on your own writing, however, should not be considered shameful or embarrassing. Academics and professional writers very often ask others to read through their work before it is published. Another pair of eyes rarely hurts. Failing a course hurts far more!
