session with a friend

Recently, I helped a friend by giving him a consultation for Portfolio 3 of English 103. I took the course with the same professor last semester, so the background knowledge helped. However, the topic given for this assignment was especially vague, so our outcomes differed. He asked that I read over the wikipage that his essay was on and provide feedback in his discussion tab because his group members that were supposed to provide feedback failed to assert any constructive criticism. I read through their comments before I began my own. The comments varied from "cool topic" to "this seems like it will turn out really well". I fear that many classes use this exercise of commentary on a classmate's work without success. Students feel awkward about "correcting" another's paper. Also, having a classmate read your work could leave you feeling vulnerable and uncertain.
Having come to this conclusion, I continued with his feedback. His piece was well-developed but some of my commentary included a consideration for different types of sources. The writer used several philosophers as sources, and while the topic was pertinent, I suggested perhaps searching for a scientist's thoughts. Also, a paragraph was inserted wherein he strays a bit off topic, yet shifts back in the next one.
After I published my commentary, which came to about two pages if printed, I noticed myself checking back on the wiki to see if he took any of my advice. I would not take it to heart if he didn't, but I felt invested in my friend's paper. He took my advice, and his essay came together very nicely. I felt good that my advice was appreciated and about the essay it aided.