Apply to the Smoke Signal’s 2020-21 Staff

*UPDATE* Next year, the Journalism class will be reduced in size from two class periods to one, and will be exclusively during third period. If you are interested in becoming a part of our staff, please make sure you have your third period time slot available. Additionally, the overall reduction in staff may impact the selection process, so keep that in mind when making your decision to apply. Additionally, if you no longer wish to apply, and you have already given the form to your English teachers, please let them know of the change. Otherwise, applications are still due by 4:00 p.m. on 2/27 to Ms. Cohen in M-2.

Apply to Journalism* and the Smoke Signal’s 2020-21 Staff! If you have any questions about the class, please visit our FAQ page.

The application is due on February 27 to M-2 by 4 p.m. Please bring your completed application package in person.

“Even though I haven’t even been in the Smoke Signal for a full year yet, it’s become my favorite part of the day because I get to work with equally passionate and driven writers, editors, and artists. It’s an organization that’s helped me hone my skills and grow more than I thought I could — I’ve become more confident in myself from being able to step out of my comfort zone on a daily basis and have learnt to conduct myself as a journalist. This has definitely been one of the most favorable life choices I’ve made, and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat if I could.” —Staff Writer Mahek Bhora

“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience in The Smoke Signal. Working on a team of talented, motivated people has shaped my collaborative skills and given me a second family that teaches me something new everyday. It’s been a journey and I can’t wait to see where this incredible organization will take me next.” —Staff Writer Megh Basu

“Applying to the Smoke Signal was one of my best decisions in high school. Beyond the writing, it’s helped me become more confident in speaking, leading, and working as part of a team. The staff — from which I’ve made some of my closest friends — continually inspires me to step out of my comfort zone, and it’s that sense of community that repeatedly reminds me why I love what I do.” —News Editor Jonathan Liu

“I’ve learned how to come out of my shell and put myself out there through the valuable experiences that the Smoke Signal has offered me. I’m never afraid to take risks because I know the community will always be there to support me; I’ve grown far more as both a student and person than I thought I ever could because of it.” —Arts and Entertainment Editor Jessica Xu

“As I reflect on my high school career, I can say without a doubt that the Smoke Signal has been one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences in my four years at MSJ. Through this organization, I have improved my writing and communication skills, learned how to keep myself abreast of current affairs, and most importantly, made lasting and fulfilling friendships. Every time I walk into M-2, I know that I will learn something new and that is the most gratifying feeling of all.” —Centerspread Editor Shreya Sridhar

Good luck to all applicants! We look forward to reviewing your applications.

*Joining the Smoke Signal staff means the Journalism class is a part of your schedule. The class and the staff are one. Please be sure you have an available elective in your schedule in order to be eligible.

Jessica Yu