Join The Heights
Be a part of the student newspaper of record at Boston College, independent since 1970.
Established in 1919 as Boston College’s student newspaper, The Heights has been both editorially and financially independent from the University since 1970. The Heights serves the students, faculty, and staff of the Boston College community, as well as our neighbors in Chestnut Hill, Newton, and the Allston-Brighton area.
It was founded with one goal: a Greater Boston College.
What we do:
Heights editors and reporters have told stories about a BC track star breaking a world record in 1920, the first class of nurses graduating in 1949, the University’s decision to allow women to enroll in 1970, and Doug Flutie winning the Heisman in 1984. More recently, The Heights has reported on the history of the LGBTQ+ community at BC, the closing of Boston College’s campus due to the coronavirus pandemic, and student organized protests.
Our past work has been recognized by:
Join us in writing the first draft of Boston College’s history.
Anyone can write for The Heights, regardless of experience. Many of our current editors had no journalism experience before joining The Heights.
Several levels of involvement are available to newcomers:
Apply to be a Staff Writer:
As a staff writer for The Heights, you will be responsible for writing one article per week for a given section—with the exception of the magazine section, for which you will be asked to write one article every two weeks—to be published online and sometimes in the Heights e-edition. You will also be expected to attend weekly section meetings.
Please submit this application by 11:59 p.m. EST on Jan. 13, 2025.
Apply HERE.
Apply to be a Columnist:
As a columnist for The Heights, you will be responsible for writing an opinions column every two weeks on a topic of your choosing. You will be expected to meet regularly with the opinions editor and will be published on The Heights‘ website . As a columnist, you will gain valuable experience in contributing regularly to an award-winning student newspaper. We’re looking for columnists who have specific interests they would like to write about. Your topic can range from politics to pickles, but the more passionate you are the better!
Please submit this application by 11:59 p.m. EST on Jan. 13, 2025.
Apply HERE.
Be a Heights Contributor:
Anyone can contribute to The Heights—no application necessary! Email the editor to be added to a section’s list, and learn about opportunities for stories. To pick up a story or an event, attend the weekly meeting for the section you wish to contribute to or email the appropriate editor.
Digital: Angelina Li
[email protected]
News: Annika Engelbrecht
[email protected]
Sports: Maria Stefanoudakis
[email protected]
Magazine: Veronica Pierce
[email protected]
Newton: Genevieve Morrison
[email protected]
Arts: Maddie Mulligan
[email protected]
Photo: Sarah Fleming
[email protected]
Apply to Join the Heights Introduction Program
The Heights Introduction Program (HIP) offers students a hands-on experience in student journalism. HIP offers the chance to explore The Heights, build connections, and learn how the paper operates in an engaging, welcoming environment. Freshmen and sophomores interested in the following are encouraged to apply:
- Writing
- Photography/Multimedia
- Graphic Design
- Business Operations
- Web Design
- Social Media
What will I do as a HIP?
HIP is the best place for anyone with an interest in writing, photography, multimedia journalism, business, or any form of storytelling to get started. No matter your passion, HIP offers an accessible way to explore it.
You will be paired with a mentor, who will show you the ropes of The Heights and Boston College. You’ll also be introduced to other freshmen and sophomores who are interested in student media. Many Heights editors have met their closest friends and roommates through HIP.
You’ll attend weekly meetings, where you’ll learn how to hone your craft and explore different facets of student journalism. You’ll have access to Heights alumni and current board members.
Why should I apply to HIP?
“HIP was a great way to learn the ins and outs of the Heights, while also making some great friends along the way. My mentor and I became very good friends and I still continue to learn from her everyday!”
— Maddy Romance, Former Managing Editor
“The HIP program is a great way to get to know other freshmen and become involved on campus. Join The Heights to have an impact in your community and make some of your best friends along the way.”
— Lauren Wittenmyer, former Deputy Managing Editor
“Reach new heights with HIP—the program will inspire you to challenge yourself, pursue what you’re passionate about, and most importantly, make memories and form friendships that will define your first semester at Boston College.”
— Maggie DiPatri, former Digital Director
How long does HIP last?
HIP begins mid-September and runs until the end of November, when we hold our editor elections. Learn more about editor elections in our FAQ at the bottom of the page.
How do I apply?
Applications are due Sept. 7 by 11:59 p.m. and can be accessed here.
Where Heights Editors and Reporters have gone to work:
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t have any journalism experience. Can I still get involved with The Heights?
Yes! Those without prior journalism experience are encouraged to join! All can be contributors, who do not have any commitment to writing, but can pick up stories when they are free. If you’re looking for a larger commitment, consider applying to become a staff writer. Freshmen and sophomores can apply to the Heights Introduction Program, which pairs participants with a current Heights editor as a mentor.
How do I become an editor?
Editors are selected by the current board during elections in November. HIP is a great way to learn about The Heights and eventually run for the board. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors can run for the board, and terms last from January to December.
I don’t write, but I’m interested in getting involved. Are there any jobs for non-writers?
Absolutely! As an independent media organization, The Heights has a fully student-run business team. Account managers sell ads and help with fundraising. The Heights also has a robust creative team, where you can get involved with photography, multimedia, graphics, social media, and web design.
I have a question that isn’t answered here. What can I do?
Email our Outreach Coordination, Owen Bienen, at [email protected]
