FAQ with the Director Emily Simnitt
Emily Simnitt is an award-winning teacher who is committed to creating more inclusive communities. After working more than 15 years in journalism and public communication, she earned an interdisciplinary PhD in Writing Studies and Literacy. From there she came to the University of Oregon and has been teaching writing, community literacy, and digital humanities classes since 2015. She’s currently the UO Leadership Fellow. Now, combining her passion for communication, community literacy, and leadership Professor Simnitt is the Director of the WSCR minor.
What is the WSCR Minor?
Communities, however you define them, need compassionate communicators. We need professionals who can listen to the needs of people, advocate with them, and bring about change through coherent, convincing arguments. That’s what we’re about in the WSCR minor. By giving you coursework in Writing, English, Philosophy, and more, we’re preparing you to meet the needs of your community and the world.
Why enroll in the minor?
The minor teaches the communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills that employers are looking for. It’s a great compliment to any course of study, whether you’re in STEM, Social Sciences, or the Humanities.
Who teaches classes in the minor?
You can find out who is teaching WSCR courses this term here by browsing the current WSCR course list. WSCR faculty combine interdisciplinary experience with a commitment to social justice. You’ll get to experience some of the most passionate and engaged professors working to make this world a better place.
Sign up for the WSCR listserv and English social media for upcoming profiles of WSCR faculty.
What cool things are students doing in WSCR classes?
If you are taking a WSCR course, I want to hear from you. Email me or stop by my in-person or virtual office hours and let me know!
What are some majors that the WSCR minor enhances?
Students from 15 different majors are currently enrolled. Well-represented Flight Paths include: Public Policy, Society, and Identity; Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation; and Scientific Discovery and Sustainability. Send me an email to let me know why you are interested in WSCR!
Where do students get advising for the minor?
From the WSCR Director – Emily Simnitt. I can answer questions about requirements and help plan which classes best connect with your interests.
What’s new with the minor this year?
A lot!
LING 201: Language and Power – has been added to the list of classes counting toward the Critical Reasoning requirement. Language and Power is a perspective-changing class that will transform the way you think about language and help you satisfy the Social Science Core Education requirement.
The Community Literacy Program is expanding. Community internships will resume in ENG 413. WSCR students will have the opportunity to develop that program.
A new WSCR Advisory Board with students representation will help take the minor into the future.
Sign up for the WSCR listserv to stay up-to-date about new classes and other new programs this year.
How do people get involved with the minor?
Here are a few easy ways to get involved:
- Join the WSCR listserv.
- Enroll in the minor by filling out minor add form: Once you do that, we’ll reach out to you with more information.
- Attend a WSCR event. Email me and ask a question or set up an in-person or Zoom chat. I can also connect you with other WSCR students.
- Try out WSCR classes while also working on your Core Education requirements:
- WR 123 Research Writing also fulfills the writing requirement
- PHIL 103 Critical Reasoning, ENG 330 Oral Controversy and Advocacy, and ENG 335 Inventing Arguments fulfill Arts and Letters Core Education requirements.
- LING 201 counts toward the Social Science Core Education requirement.
