A writing instructor/graduate student investigated elements essential in helping and empowering student writers, while embarking on her own journey for a Ph.D. in rhetoric. Getting more knowledge is the catalyst that started the journey and includes the following stops: Philosophiville, Theory Town, Rhetorical Junction, and Writing Center City. Of basic importance is the obtaining of knowledge in composition theory and rhetoric, as well as the need to develop a personal philosophy which values development or natural learning. Next is the practical application of theory which helps students gain a balance of content, audience, and voice. Finally, classroom writing teachers can discover a great deal from the collaborative efforts in the writing center. Peer tutors work well with individual students because they are not evaluators, but people who are ready to listen, to read and to help. The writing center, after all, is an environment for human communication, i.e., just people interested in writing. (Fifteen references are attached.) (KEH)