Are there any restrictions on whom a specific tutor can help 🔹 Can my TA also be my writing tutor 🔹 Can I get help from a tutor who’s also my friend

Yes — there are a few important restrictions to make sure tutoring stays fair and professional.

A tutor cannot work with:

  • Someone they are currently a Teaching Assistant (TA) for in a course

  • A close friend or social acquaintance

This is to avoid any conflict of interest or confusion between roles. For example, if your tutor is also grading your work as a TA, it could create pressure or bias. And if they’re a close friend, it might be harder to keep the session focused and objective.

All tutors are trained to support students respectfully and professionally. If you’re unsure whether a tutor can work with you, just ask the Writing Centre staff — they’ll help you find the right fit.

📘 Helpful Definitions:

  • Conflict of interest: A situation where someone’s personal or professional roles could interfere with fair decision-making

  • Teaching Assistant (TA): A student who helps a professor with grading, teaching, or supporting a course

  • Social acquaintance: Someone you know personally outside of class or tutoring

📎 Suggested Links:

📝 Special Notes:

  • These rules help protect both students and tutors from awkward or unfair situations

  • If you’re assigned a tutor who you know personally, you can ask to switch — no problem

  • Tutors follow confidentiality guidelines and professional boundaries at all times

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