Blogger Application

What does it mean to be a blogger?

It means staying informed about campus and local issues, as well as national and international news. It means thinking about the issues that matter to you and to your readers. It means participating in the journalistic enterprise. It means writing clearly, effectively and provocatively to demonstrate a point.

It also means being willing to put the time and effort into doing a good job.

The DP is looking to present a diverse range of opinions on a diverse range of subjects. A successful blogger must draw from his or her unique experiences and insights.

What makes good opinion writing?

A blog is a timely, punchy, and relevant piece of opinion writing. Every good piece presents new information and a carefully thought-out opinion on a topic, even those that seem to be little more than anecdotal.

Current campus issues and controversies make for a great blog, but so can an interesting or unique take on even the most seemingly mundane of topics.

The best opinion pieces, whether they're on campus, local, national or international events or issues, relate their topic to the relevant community -- Penn and West Philadelphia. If what you are writing about does not tell your reader why it matters to him or her, there's no reason to read it. The best way to find out what we look for in opinion writing is to look through The Spin archives online.

Blogs should be no longer than 300 words.

Who can be a blogger?

Undergraduates, graduate and professional students, faculty, staff and administrators of the University of Pennsylvania, and members of the University and West Philadelphia community are welcome to submit an application. The only qualification is having something to say about Penn and its surrounding community, and a willingness to put in the necessary time and energy.

To download the application, click here