This study examined the perspectives of both tutors at university writing centers and the
Non-Native English Speaking (NNES) students who use the centers. Using qualitative
methods, this study looked at perceptions of the academic writing needs of the NNES
students, along with characteristics of tutoring sessions which made the sessions
successful in the eyes of tutors and students. The study used interviews, observations, a
survey, and artifacts to look at these topics and then compared the perceptions of tutors
and students. Additionally, the study compared writing centers at two universities, one of
which employs an ESL specialist, in order to learn if employing this specialist affects
success for the tutors and NNES students. Results indicate that student and tutor
perceptions of student needs were similar in that they expressed consistent need for
grammar assistance and help with low-order concerns (LOCs). Sessions at both
universities were successful, according to tutors and students, if sessions focused on these
grammar and LOC needs. Employing an ESL specialist did not affect the perceptions of
students or tutors nor did it seem to effect the success of sessions for either students or
tutors.