As we enter the 110th year of the Old Gold & Black newspaper, a lot has changed. Since the paper was founded in 1916, there have been two world wars, 19 presidents, vast innovations in medicine and technology, space exploration and now, the Bento in Benson has Old Gold swipe options. The one thing that hasn’t changed is that, at its heart, the Old Gold & Black is a student newspaper.
What do I mean by that? This is not a newspaper exclusive to students studying journalism, writing or English. It is not only for students who want to be hotshot journalists for CNN one day or those who want to spend months developing a groundbreaking story. Trust me – as a health and exercise science major on the pre-physician assistant track who’s now editor-in-chief, I would know. The only qualification you need to join the Old Gold & Black is to be a current Wake Forest undergraduate student.
The Old Gold & Black’s core identity as a student newspaper is a platform to amplify the voices of students from all backgrounds and perspectives. This newspaper is not only a place for writers and editors, but also for photographers, videographers, podcasters, artists, designers and anyone who is even remotely interested in any subject in the world.
Every Wake Forest student is highly and uniquely qualified to contribute to the newspaper via any creative medium. It does not matter if you have never written more than a paragraph or haven’t touched a camera more advanced than your iPhone. It does not matter if you are a new freshman or a second-semester senior. What makes the newspaper special is our wide range of Demon Deacon perspectives and experiences.
I implore you to tap into your creative side and discover the pride and joy that come with seeing your name on a published work. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, travel, campus news, the environment, sports, the latest movies and plays, politics, music or analyzing the personalities of the penguins from “Madagascar,” your contributions are the foundation of the Old Gold & Black.
Even 110 years from now, when there are flying cars and time machines, the Old Gold & Black will continue to be a student newspaper.
