A new campus publication, even if it competes with this organization, can only be a positive thing.
As journalism students, we are constantly told to expand our knowledge and diversify our reading material. That’s what we hear as conscientious citizens, too.
Editors of newspapers, magazines and blogs around the world read dozens of other papers a day, online if not in print. Yes, it’s daunting and difficult. Between class, homework and a social life, it seems almost impossible to get through the front page of The New York Times, let alone Newsday and the New Yorker. But we should all strive to read a variety of news sources and hear from a wide range of opinions.
It struck us as odd when, on the heels of a decision made by the Student Government Association, there was some negativity surrounding the passing of a new student publication. InformNation is set to start publishing in October on a monthly basis with the aim of “a change in the level of awareness and activism on campus.”
Yes, SGA’s policy does not allow for clubs with duplicate purposes, but we do not see it as a slap in the face nor as a personal insult that the rule makes exceptions where media organizations are concerned. We feel this is how it should be: the more eyes watching the actions of student organizations, the University and the country, the better.
No one knows better than we do the difficulties faced when putting together a publication with limited funding and staff on a regular basis. The hours are long, the frustration levels skyrocket and the recognition, if it ever comes, is minimal. Yet The Chronicle staff shows up dutifully on a weekly basis ready to work. We make the best of lacking equipment, sluggish writers and overwhelming deadlines all in the name of journalism. We believe in bringing campus news and student opinions to the University community. But we’re just one small paper (the little paper that could, if you will).
We commend InformNation on their refusal of SGA funds in favor of printing solely out of pocket for their first issue. We’re also glad they are here and wish the students in charge of this latest journalistic endeavor all the best.