Embedded Writing Specialist

Embedded Writing Specialists (2026-2027 Academic Year)

Are you passionate about writing, mentoring, and helping others grow? Do you value mentorship and want to help students use writing as a tool to find their voice and confidence in college? The Department of Writing and Rhetoric invites undergraduate students to apply to be a part of the Embedded Writing Specialist (EWS) program. EWSs make a meaningful impact by supporting writers in WRT 1020: Basic Writing and WRT 1050: Composition I.

Roles & Responsibilities: 

EWSs take a strengths-based approach to mentoring student writers—helping them build on what they do well while developing confidence and skills in new areas. EWSs are embedded directly into writing classrooms, where they:

• Build supportive, respectful relationships with student writers
• Offer one-on-one guidance that encourages students’ growth and agency 
• Help lead classroom activities and facilitate peer learning
• Create accessible resources and materials for student use 
• Collaborate closely with course instructors and the EWS Director
   

For Fall 2026, all WRT 1020 courses will be held in person. EWSs assigned to these courses will be required to attend the in-person class meetings.

The EWS program is deeply committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. We believe that writing development is not one-size-fits-all, and we value the unique backgrounds, languages, and lived experiences that students bring to the classroom. To learn more about the values that guide our work, applicants are encouraged to review the Department of Writing and Rhetoric and Oakland University’s DEI initiatives.

How to Apply:

On Handshake, please upload a résumé and a short cover letter that includes a response to the following question:

• Describe a time when you asked for help on something you were not confident about. What did you learn from this experience– about yourself, about learning, or about working with others? 

Applicants will be invited to a virtual interview. Preference will be given to majors in Professional and Digital Writing, Minors in Writing, Writing Center consultants, and students who have completed advanced courses in Writing and Rhetoric.

Priority Deadline: August 7, 2026

For questions, please contact Dr. Megan McCool, EWS Director, at meganmccool@oakland.edu.

Partner with students as they build on their strengths, navigate the university, and launch their success—apply to become an EWS today!