Thesis Writing Retreat

Completing your thesis can be much easier when adhering to a regular schedule and becoming a member of a supportive writing group. Groups keep writers accountable and foster a sense of community. With this in mind, the Writing Centre and School of Graduate Studies are pleased to host a 5-day Thesis Retreat for graduate students from April 22-26, 2024. If you are looking for distraction-free time to write and can commit to 5 days of consistent writing, then this group is for you! 

Although we will have a few guest speakers, the majority of the time will be dedicated to independent writing. This event is not meant for students who are seeking help learning or developing their academic writing, but rather for those who are currently engaged in substantial writing already. The Writing Centre continues to offer appointments for students who would like one-on-one help. If you have any questions, please contact the event facilitator directly (Jacinda Sinclair, jmsinclair@mun.ca) or the Writing Centre (writing@mun.ca).

Dates/Time

Monday, April 22, 2024 - Friday, April 26, 2024

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Newfoundland Daylight Time (NDT)

Retreat participants are expected to come for five full days. However, we will be accommodating of students who may face unexpected circumstances that prevent them from attending some meetings. Students who know they will only be able to attend some meetings or a partial number of hours per day should contact the event facilitator before registering. Accommodations will be granted for students who can demonstrate need (e.g., childcare responsibilities, conflicting work schedules, etc.).

Mode

  • In-person at the MUNSU Council Chambers (UC2001) for students in the St. John's Metro Area.
  • Online via WebEx for students outside the St. John’s Metro Area.

Expectations

  • The writing group is intended to give students the opportunity to generate text, not perfect it.
  • Graduate students are encouraged to meet with their supervisors prior to the writing group to establish goals.
  • All participants should measure their achievements at the start and end of each session.

Registration

If the registration is full, you may use the waitlist link and you will be contacted if we are able to accommodate you. Please do not register using the other link if the registration is full (e.g., online when you would like to come in-person).

Students who submit incomplete forms or inconsistent responses (e.g., indicate you would like to come to the retreat to take writing classes) may be contacted to confirm their intention to attend the event or have their registration removed.

The event facilitator will take attendance on the first day. Students who are not present and have not arranged for accommodations may forfeit their place in the Writing Retreat. Students who miss more than one day thereafter without an accommodation may also forfeit their place in the Writing Retreat.