Sahara Norman – the Writing Success Program Manager – is here to assist you with questions about WSP.
Staff
Noemmi Fierros
Amo O’Neil
Carlos Torres
Luke Walusimbi
WSP Objectives
The Writing Success Program embraces the transformative and inspiring power of words. By collaborating with students at every stage of the writing process, we help them develop the critical thinking and writing skills essential for their holistic growth as agents of social change. Through a compassionate and supportive approach, we empower students to engage their voices with confidence, enabling them to write with greater purpose and joy.
About WSP
Mission
The Writing Success Program (WSP) aims to support the CPO’s mission of retaining and graduating conscious, empowered leaders. We achieve this by equipping students with the tools to think and write with purpose and meaning, contributing to their holistic development as scholars. Through one-on-one writing counseling and quarterly workshops, we address the full range of students’ needs, from research papers to resumes and personal statements.
Our primary goals are to alleviate writing anxiety, boost students’ confidence, and cultivate the analytical skills necessary for them to become effective, persuasive communicators. We take pride in a methodology that encourages divergent thinking and centers the student in the writing process, empowering their voice and validating their ideas. Additionally, WSP supports students in developing a compassionate and assured sense of self, essential for the proactive pursuit of their dreams.
History
The Writing Success Program was founded in 2001 by students Antonio Sandoval Ayala, Melanie Pascual, Kim Cauley, Crystal Roberts-Mesa, and CPO staff member Janet E. Brown. Initially, Janet provided informal writing counseling, encouraging deep thinking through critical questions and dialogue. Given the Community Programs Office’s (CPO) focus on students who may be underprepared for college-level work, Janet’s approach aligned seamlessly with the department’s goals.
Today, the program offers dynamic writing sessions that go beyond traditional tutoring, guiding students through each step of the writing process. By fostering discussion and inquiry, the program strengthens students’ arguments and empowers them to take full ownership of their writing.
Philosophy
The Writing Success Program believes in the power of words to transform and inspire. Collaborating with students in each step of the writing process, we assist them in developing the tools required for critical thinking and writing, thus contributing to their holistic growth as agents of social change. By supporting a more compassionate and confident approach to writing, students engage their voices with more power and joy.
The Water Hole (WSP’s Blog Since 2010)
Read the Water Hole Blog for daily support and inspiration at wspucla.wordpress.com.
Our Services
1. 1-on-1 Writing & Creativity Counseling
2. Quarterly Workshops
3. Daily Support & Inspiration Blog: Read the support and inspiration blog at wspucla.wordpress.com.
4. Daily Drop-in Hours
Book an Appointment
Appointment Link Coming Soon!
For more information, visit our Instagram.
Past Writing Success Program Managers
Janet E. Brown
(2001-2009)
Anjali Rodrigues
(2009)
Kim Yau
(2010)
Sahra Nguyen
(2010-2012)
Denise Pacheco
(2012-2014)
Layhannara Tep
(2014-2017)
Monica Mendoza
(2017-2021)
Oscar Macias
(2021-2023)
Samantha Magpusao
(2023)
Angela Le
(2023-2024)
