Inevitably, a student will come to the Center with a paper containing a professor’s comments that make your skin crawl. This professor is all off, you might think; how could she have written such comments on this paper? What was she thinking? Such thoughts are fine as long as you keep them to yourself. There is never an appropriate time for professor bashing; doing such will only cause you and the Writing Center to seem less than professional.

Instead of voicing criticism and judgment about a professor and her comments, focus instead on ways that the student can improve his paper. Try to help the student understand what the weaknesses are, even if you don’t agree with the way in which the professor has shared such observations. Instead of, “This is the dumbest comment I’ve ever read,” try another approach: “I’m not sure, but I think the problem your professor was having at this point in your paper involves….” 

Raise questions, make suggestions. Perhaps a comment or directive on the paper genuinely escapes your understanding; suggest that the student go to the professor for clarification. Avoid, at all costs, risking your professionalism by encouraging friction between students and professors. Focus instead on providing helpful, constructive assistance.