Columnist

Department

Opinions

Reports To

Opinion Editor

Hours

8 per week

Pay

Piece rate only — you’re paid for what you file, at published rates. No hourly wage, no guaranteed minimum, no cap. No work submitted, no pay.

Do you like writing clearly articulated, incisive arguments? Do you have a propensity to frame news stories within a larger context? Are you trying to find your voice as a writer? Sounds like you’re a budding columnist.

The Minnesota Daily is looking for student writers who enjoy fast-paced environments and who are ready to put pen to paper to provide smart, fresh perspectives for the University of Minnesota community.

Responsibilities

• Pitch and write one column per week, between 700-1000 words
• Works with opinion page editor on matters of content and style
• Reads news coverage and conducts extensive research necessary to frame opinions
• Columns deliver informative, responsible perspectives
• Attends weekly pitch meetings, contributes constructively to other columnists’ pitches and collaborates during meetings to strengthen individual column theses and stances

Qualifications

• Must be a University of Minnesota student
• Excellent writing skills (success in a University writing-related class strongly advised; knowledge of grammar, style conventions, etc. is essential)
• Strong interest in opinion writing
• Familiarity with the University of Minnesota campus and Twin Cities community
• Must be able to work effectively under strict deadlines
• You *do not* need to be in the journalism school to apply for this position. We welcome and encourage applicants from all majors and backgrounds

Disclaimer: This job description is only intended to be a summary of the responsibilities and qualifications required in the day-to-day work for this position. It is not exhaustive in nature. The Minnesota Daily reserves the right to change the job description at-will and to modify an employee’s job role at any time to best benefit the organization.

The Minnesota Daily is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, national origin, age, disability, genetics or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All students are encouraged to apply