Write for the Campus Newspaper to Boost Your Application

We live in an era of fake news and tweets. In this environment, student journalism stands out as a beacon of rigor and integrity.

At Santa Monica College, the student newspaper—The Corsair—is not just a "club." It is a nationally award-winning publication that consistently beats 4-year universities in competitions. Working for The Corsair is professional experience.

Whether you are an English major, a Graphic Designer, a CS major, or a Photographer, the newspaper needs you. And unlike a blog you start in your bedroom, your work here gets published, read by thousands, and archived permanently.

1. It's a Class, Not Just a Club

This is the most important distinction. You don't just "show up." You enroll.

The Key Courses:

• Journ 16 (Producing the Campus Newspaper): This is the main production class. It is 4 units. You are the staff. You write, edit, and layout the paper.
• Journ 1 (Introduction to Journalism): Often a prerequisite or co-requisite. Teaches you the "Inverted Pyramid" style of writing.
• Photo 13 (News Photography): For the photojournalists. You learn how to capture events, sports, and breaking news.

By making it a class, you are forced to be disciplined. You have deadlines. If you miss a deadline, you don't just let the team down; your grade drops. This simulates a real newsroom environment perfectly.

2. Roles for Non-Writers

"But I'm a Computer Science major, I hate writing."

Good news: The Corsair needs you more than they need writers.

3. The "Byline" Portfolio

When you apply for internships at even non-news companies (like PR firms, tech companies, or non-profits), they will ask for writing samples.

Most students submit an essay about "To Kill a Mockingbird" from their English class.
You, however, will submit a link to a published article: "Investigation into Parking Fees at SMC Structure A."

Why it wins: It shows you can research facts, interview strangers (a huge soft skill), synthesize complex info, and publish it publicly. It is "Proof of Work" that an essay can never be.

4. Curing Social Anxiety

To be a reporter, you have to walk up to total strangers on the quad and ask them questions. You have to email administrators who might be ignoring you.

For many students, this is terrifying. That is exactly why you should do it. Overcoming the fear of cold-contacting people is a "Super Skill." Once you can interview the College President for a story, you will have zero fear interviewing for a job at a bank.

Summary

The Corsair alumni network runs deep. Former editors are at the LA Times, Washington Post, and major PR firms.

Joining the paper is a heavy time commitment (especially on production nights, which can go late), but it creates a bond with your fellow staff members that is unlike any other club. You go to war together every week to get the paper out. That camaraderie is priceless.

Back to Student Guides.