You may have had a first issue this semester, but if not, consider this.
The first issue of the semester is big.
The first issue of the semester is big.
Try something new this semester. Consider using an exciting approach.
A video to start staff members thinking of topics. And below is the result. It probably isn't as simple as it appears in the video. But, what the heck -- it just might work for you. If you don't do it this semester, think about it for spring.
Now for some of the more mundane topics.
• New rules and regulations shouldn't be overlooked, but what about features and photo stories? Summer recap, faculty featurettes, exchange students (but don't ask how they like America), sports advances (but avoid the coach's prediction that "we'll be in the fight for district"), new buildings or changes in buildings, fall fashions, new TV shows, etc.,
• September events include Hispanic Heritage Month
• Labor Day may offer features
• October has lots to cover — Halloween and Day of the Dead come to mind, but you may find others.
• Halloween story ideas: Haunted houses (a photo story would be eerily grand), most popular costume (look at the theater department's costume collection and a trip to a costume shop), ghost stories (please, not the railroad tracks), back to the theater department for a story and photos about stage makeup, party ideas (a trip to the party stores), scary movies on DVD, critics of Halloween by some groups — any others?
• Day of the Dead story ideas: What is it? (Talk with the experts locally), a look at altars (photos and story), celebrations in Mexico (See this site: Day of the Dead in Mexico), Day of the Dead food and photos.
• Look at this web site: It's great for ideas. Think about how the stories could be transformed into print. Kobre Guide.
Click here for interesting November events.
Naturally, December events like Christmas and Hanukah come to mind, but there are others that students may find important. Keep in mind that just a story about a day isn't enough. Localize. Find a student or faculty member who is involved in the special day. Humanize.
The United Nations' (UN) World AIDS Day is an occasion to honor those who have died of AIDS and those who live with HIV or AIDS and to increase awareness of these conditions. It is held on Dec. 1 each year.
Back to The Exchange