Application Process
STAGE 1: Preliminary
1. Online Form
Online form to be filled out by an applicant.
2. Application Scrutiny
The application will be reviewed by 2 editors for eligibility requirements and warning markers.
3. Background checks
Technical services will perform online background checks to establish any illegal activity.
STAGE 2: Assessment
1. Written samples
The applicant is required to submit two written articles. At least one article must be on a subject NOT currently listed on the newspaper. The articles must differ in area of news. We recommend to pick one topic from home country, and one abroad, but to display personal political beliefs in both.
2. Video Interview
An online video interview will be conducted over Skype and will be recorded. This will happen with either 2 editors or one editor and review at a later stage. The aim of the interview is to establish credentials, positively ID applicant and to discuss political views and beliefs. The interview will aim to establish a consistent level of intellect, a sound ability to reason and logic, and to also converse professionally. The interview will also refer to the applicant’s written samples and any issues flagged in the background checks.
STAGE 3: Probation
1. Probation period
Upon successfully passing the previous stages, the applicant will be placed on a probationary period. For this time, the applicant will be under the responsibility of an Editor. The probationary period shall last until the editor is sufficiently satisfied that the applicant’s articles are of standard and he/she is capable of writing for the newspaper. For the probationary period, a pseudonym MUST be used. The probation period is there to allow the applicant to better gauge their political writing, and consult with their editor to understand how they can write in the newspaper’s style.
2. Acceptance
Once the attached Editor is happy that the applicant is capable of writing for the newspaper, the applicant will be formally admitted to the contributor team. He/She will then have the option of removing their pseudonym if they chose, but it is recommended to continue using it. The editorial process will still occur, however, the applicant is no longer under direct supervision, and is free to choose any area of the newspaper to write for.