If you're a student at Brown University or just trying to keep up with the latest campus news, the Brown Daily Herald probably comes up in your daily scroll more than once. And for good reason — it's the go-to source for everything happening at Brown, from breaking news to student life updates. But with so much content published every day, knowing how to navigate it all can feel overwhelming. That’s where our Brown Daily Herald tips come in handy. Whether you’re looking to stay informed, get involved, or even apply to join the team, we’ve got you covered.
The Brown Daily Herald, Inc., is more than just a student-run newspaper — it’s a full-fledged media organization with over 250 students contributing across journalism, business, and web divisions. It’s known for its commitment to quality reporting, real-world training, and fostering a strong sense of community. And whether you’re a first-year student trying to find your footing or a senior wrapping up your time at Brown, understanding how the Herald operates can help you make the most of your university experience.
So, where do you start? That’s exactly what this guide is here for. We’ll walk you through the best ways to engage with the Herald, how to use it to your advantage as a student, and even how to apply if you’re thinking of joining their team. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Brown Daily Herald — and how to make it work for you.
Table of Contents
- Why the Brown Daily Herald Matters
- How to Stay Updated with the Latest News
- How to Get Involved with the Herald
- Understanding Herald’s Coverage and Content
- Tips for Applying to Join the Brown Daily Herald
- FAQs About the Brown Daily Herald
Why the Brown Daily Herald Matters
For students at Brown University, the Brown Daily Herald is more than just a news source — it's a part of campus life. Since its first issue in 1891, the Herald has played a central role in keeping the university community informed. It’s a nonprofit, financially independent organization, and it’s trained generations of student journalists, editors, and media professionals.
What makes it different from other student publications? Well, for one, it’s fully student-run, with real editorial independence. That means the content you see is driven by students, not faculty or university administrators. That kind of autonomy gives the Herald a unique voice and perspective, making it an essential part of the Brown experience.
But it’s not just about news. The Herald is also a great way to stay connected with events, student opinions, and even career advice. Whether it’s a feature on student organizations or a breaking story about university policy changes, the Herald is often the first to report it. So if you're looking to stay informed, this is your best bet.
How to Stay Updated with the Latest News
If you want to keep up with what’s happening on campus and beyond, the Herald makes it easy. Here are a few tips to help you stay in the loop without feeling overwhelmed:
- Sign up for daily headlines – The Herald offers a daily email newsletter that delivers top stories straight to your inbox. It’s a great way to start your morning without having to scroll through the whole site.
- Check breaking news updates – For urgent developments, like campus emergencies or big policy changes, the Herald’s breaking news alerts are the fastest way to stay informed. You can subscribe to receive these as they happen.
- Follow them on social media – The Herald has active accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where they post quick updates, highlights from recent stories, and even behind-the-scenes content.
- Set up Google News alerts – If you’re interested in specific topics, like student life or financial aid, you can set up custom alerts for the Brown Daily Herald on Google News to get instant updates.
And if you ever miss a day or two, don’t worry — the Herald keeps a full archive of past issues online. You can search by date, section, or keyword to catch up on anything you might have missed.
How to Get Involved with the Herald
If you’re interested in journalism, writing, or digital media, joining the Brown Daily Herald is a great opportunity. It’s not just about writing articles — there are roles in editing, design, photography, web development, and even business operations. Here’s how to get started:
- Check the Herald’s hiring page – They often post openings for new staff members at the beginning of each semester. Look for sections like “Join the Herald” or “Apply Now” on their website.
- Attend an open house or info session – The Herald hosts events for students interested in learning more about the organization. These are great opportunities to meet current staff and ask questions about the application process.
- Submit a writing sample – If you’re applying for a writing or editing position, having a strong writing sample is essential. This can be an op-ed, feature piece, or even a blog post — just make sure it showcases your voice and style.
- Start small – If you're new to journalism, consider starting with a smaller role, like contributing to the opinion section or assisting with layout design. It’s a great way to learn the ropes and build experience.
And once you’re part of the team, you’ll have access to real-world training, mentorship from experienced students, and the chance to work on impactful stories that matter to the Brown community.
Understanding Herald’s Coverage and Content
The Herald covers a wide range of topics, from breaking campus news to in-depth features on student life, academics, and even national issues. Here’s what you can expect from their content:
- Breaking news – Whether it’s a protest on campus, a policy change, or a major university announcement, the Herald is usually the first to report it.
- Opinion pieces – The opinion section is one of the most-read parts of the Herald, featuring student-written articles on everything from politics to personal experiences.
- Features and long-form stories – These go beyond the headlines and explore topics in depth, offering unique insights and storytelling from the student perspective.
- Arts & culture – Want to know what’s happening in the arts scene at Brown? The Herald covers campus performances, student exhibitions, and cultural events.
- Student life and wellness – From dorm life to mental health resources, the Herald often publishes content aimed at helping students navigate university life.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Herald strives to reflect the diverse voices of the student body. That means you’ll often see a variety of perspectives represented, even when they don’t all agree. It’s part of what makes the Herald a trusted and respected source of information on campus.
Tips for Applying to Join the Brown Daily Herald
If you’re thinking about applying, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be clear about what you want to do – The Herald has different divisions, so make sure you know which role you’re interested in. Whether it’s writing, editing, design, or digital production, being specific helps the team place you where you’ll be most effective.
- Highlight your skills and experience – Even if you're just starting out, showing that you're eager to learn and open to feedback can go a long way. Include any relevant coursework, past writing samples, or related experience in your application.
- Be ready to commit time – While the Herald is student-run, it’s not just a casual side project. Most roles require regular meetings and consistent contributions, so make sure you’re ready to dedicate time and effort.
- Ask for feedback – If you’re not selected for a position the first time around, don’t be discouraged. Many students start by contributing occasionally before landing a full-time role. Ask for feedback and use it to improve your next application.
Also, keep an eye out for internships or fellowships the Herald may offer. These can be great opportunities to gain experience and build your portfolio, especially if you're interested in media or journalism beyond Brown.
FAQs About the Brown Daily Herald
How often is the Brown Daily Herald published?
The Herald publishes new content daily during the academic term. That includes news articles, opinion pieces, and updates on campus events. During breaks or summer, they may publish less frequently, but still offer regular coverage.
Can anyone write for the Brown Daily Herald?
Yes! The Herald welcomes contributions from all Brown students, regardless of major or experience level. While some positions are staff-only, there are plenty of opportunities for guest writers and contributors to get involved.
Is the Brown Daily Herald affiliated with the university?
While it's based at Brown University, the Herald is a financially independent, nonprofit organization. It maintains editorial independence and is not directly controlled by the university administration.
If you’ve got more questions or want to get involved, the best place to start is by visiting their official website. You can also reach out via email or attend one of their open meetings to learn more.