EMILY SMITH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
#NewYearNewMe doesn’t just apply to Instagram users, because in MCC 202- #NewYearNewInk is the motto for The Inkwell’s fresh staff.
I am pleased to welcome a new Inkwell editorial board this year, but am just as excited about all of the new writers and photographers who made it to the first meeting last week. Although it takes a dedicated group of editors to sail the ship, we could not create all of the content for the newspaper ourselves. However, we are always in need of more people to write and take pictures to cover as much territory as we possibly can.
Why get involved with The Inkwell?
Although receiving pirate cash for your contributions is appealing, the main reason to get involved with the campus newspaper is to get your work published. Yes it’s rewarding to see your name in print, but having published work under your belt is attractive to multiple employers inside and outside the field of media.
That being said, if you’re a journalism student who is even thinking about working in media, it is especially crucial that you work for the school newspaper. Having a focus in journalism on a piece of paper once you graduate means nothing if you don’t have something to show for it.
This is my senior year, so I have been working on internships and potential job opportunities. Each and every one has asked for writing samples.
Not only will you be able to provide legit writing samples when the time comes, but you’ll also have already gained valuable experience working with editors, deadlines, and Associated Press writing style. These skills are better learned with your peers and teachers who are here to help and guide you, versus fumbling during your first job.
The Inkwell Editors and your journalism professors are here to help, so take advantage of the opportunities right here at Armstrong.
Lastly, working for The Inkwell is fun. I know I may be a little biased in saying this since I’m the Editor-in-Chief, but working for the newspaper since I was a freshman has been the best thing I’ve done in college. The friends I’ve made have not only given me a group to hang out with, but they’ve also made my writing better. Not to mention, writing for the newspaper has opened many other doors for me to be published/ gain experience elsewhere.
How to get involved with The Inkwell
Our writers meetings are held every Wednesday at 12:30pm in The Inkwell office (MCC room 202). During these meetings, the section editors and I discuss story ideas for each section of the newspaper and give assignments. This is also a time for writers and photographers to share their ideas with the editorial board. Afterwards, editors are available to answer questions and help. The best way to get started is to jump right in by taking an assignment. The entire process is not as scary as it may seem.
So get involved whether it’s for the experience, the friends, or for the pirate cash. (Because there’s no reason to pay for Quizno’s with your credit card.)
