MIT students and post-docs affiliated with NSE are welcome to make an appointment with the Communication Lab (Comm Lab). We’ll support your communication work by having conversations with you about high-level principles like audience, structure, and message, rather than focusing on line-editing or grammar. We are particularly strong at brainstorming and outlining, and encourage you to include the lab in your process as early as you can so that you get the most out of the experience.
Check out what to expect during an appointment.
Option 1: Use our online scheduling system
The first time you use the system linked above, you will need to register. You will then be able to see all of the Fellows’ available times and pick one that will work best for you.
Option 2: Contact a Fellow directly
Check out Fellow bios to see if there is a particular Fellow whose background may be a good match for you.
Option 3: Contact the NSE Communication Lab Manager
If none of the Fellows’ times work for you or you want guidance figuring out which Fellow would be a good match, contact us. Let us know what you’re working on and when it’s due. We’ll help you get the coaching you need to meet your deadline.
NSE Communication Lab Policies
Who can use the NSE Comm Lab?
- The NSE Comm Lab’s services are free and available to anyone who is in the NSE department, affiliated with an NSE lab, or taking an NSE class. If you are not sure whether you are eligible, please contact the NSE Comm Lab Manager to inquire.
- If you are not in NSE, check whether your department has a Comm Lab available here.
How do Communication Lab sessions work?
- Sessions can be no longer than 60 minutes. There are exceptions such as defense presentation dry runs.
- All in-person sessions must take place in public locations such as the Comm Lab, a café, or the library.
- Cancellations must be made at least 3 hours in advance (preferably 24 hours in advance, to respect Fellows’ time). Otherwise, they will be counted as missed appointments.
- If a client misses three appointments, s/he will not be able to take advantage of the Comm Lab during the following four months.
What can and can’t I expect Communication Fellows to do?
- Fellows will have conversations with clients about their work.
- Fellows do not provide written feedback.
- Fellows are not obligated to read client documents or otherwise prepare before sessions. If you plan to work on a longer document in one session, think in advance about which specific sections or elements would be most helpful for you to focus on during your session.
- Fellows are not available for private hiring or contract work, and will not accept gifts from clients.
- Fellows do not replace TAs, course instructors, or S3 counselors.
Accessibility
- If you would like to discuss any disability accommodations prior to making a Communication Lab appointment, please contact the Communication Lab manager.