No matter what college you attend, big or small, you’re probably going to realize that there’s a newspaper at the campus.  Well did you know that you could potentially get a job at the newspaper and get paid?  Even if you don’t want to get paid, you can still apply for a job, which will look great on your resume as a reference.  Now, the true question is, “How do I get a job with my college newspaper?”

Get a portfolio put together

A newspaper, just like any other job is going to want to see what you can do.  What I would recommend is that you gather up a few writing pieces and write an article as if you were writing for the paper.  If you’re interested in the entertainment category, write up a few pieces on the news today.  If you’re interested in sports, write a few pieces on this.  Let them know what you’re capable of.

Get a hold of the careers services division

Every newspaper at a campus is probably always look for help, paid or not.  Look for someone in charge and either speak with them in person or ask for some contact deals.  Ask them if they have any job openings and also ask them what you can do in order to land a potential gig.  You want to make it clear that you’re interested in anything.  Remember that a foot in the door alone is better than nothing.

Apply like any other job

A newspaper gig is no different than any other job you may apply for.  Write up a resume and submit it to the human resource’s department.  Along with your resume, you may want to provide that portfolio with it if they asked for it in the first place.  It will never hurt to submit it and show them what you can potentially do.

Whether you get paid in the long run or they will allow you to work for free, I say take advantage of it regardless.  If you want to start a journalism career in the future, I say get your foot in the door so that you can take full advantage.  Just by doing this, you’ll increase your odds of landing a full time job for the future.