Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
The Daily Gazette would like to let the community know that we’re rethinking the staff reporter position at our paper. Until now, any Swattie who wrote an article for the Gazette was called a staff reporter. Looking to the future, we’d like to formalize this position, to recognize the student journalists who show continued dedication to the work we do.
The Daily Gazette will remain open to those who can only write occasionally, and to community members who want to make their voices heard on a particular issue. Being a staff reporter on the Gazette, however, will be reserved for those who regularly contribute high-quality work to our publication. There will be an application process for this position, and staff reporters will be paid a stipend per semester.
We’re making this change as part of our continued effort to foster a commitment to serious journalism and build a staff of dedicated writers at the Gazette. The stipend is a way to thank our student journalists for the time they put into their reporting. It will add a sense of responsibility for the work that we do here, as well as provide an opportunity for those who otherwise could not commit the time.
Applications will be accepted at any point during the semester; the process will include writing an article for publication. Occasional contributors and newcomers are both invited to apply. The application process is meant to formalize and build our relationship with staff reporters. They will be expected to contribute on a regular basis and help us provide the fullest possible coverage of news and events on campus.
If you’re interested in applying for a staff reporter position, or just want to learn more about what we do here at The Daily Gazette, stop by our Piñata Parlor Party this Wednesday, October 20th, in Shane Lounge. We’ll have unicorn piñatas to whack and delicious food to eat. Also, we’re always looking for photographers, columnists and web developers. Students interested in those positions should stop by!
We hope this policy will encourage both new writers and former contributors to join us as we strive to bring the Swarthmore community the best possible daily coverage on the issues that matter the most to you.