Apply to the Smoke Signal’s 2023-24 Staff!

Apply to Journalism* and the Smoke Signal’s 2023-24 Staff! If you have any questions about the class, please visit our FAQ page.

As a part of your application, you’ll need to request a recommendation from your current or last year’s English teacher. Please email your teacher asking them to submit a recommendation via the Smoke Signal Recommendation Form (all English teachers already have access to it). We suggest you contact your teacher well in advance before you submit your application so they have enough time to complete your recommendation before January 30.

The application is due by Monday, January 30 at 1:00 p.m. in M2. Please bring your completed application package in person.

Joining the Smoke Signal was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From cold-calling buisnesses to editing stories, being a part of the smokie family has inspired me to take initative, break out of my comfort zone, and find a community that inspires me. Join the Smoke Signal, I promise you’ll gain so much! — News Editor Senior Rohan Baghat

As a first-year member of the Smoke Signal, I can without a doubt say that joining the newspaper has been one of the most worthwhile and rewarding experiences I’ve ever been in. I have not only gotten the opportunity to collaborate with an inspiring group of writers, but I’ve also made many new friends. The newspaper has also taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, determination, communication, and work ethic. From the staff members to editors, everyone in the Smoke Signal makes the newspaper a wonderful community to be part of. — Staff Writer Shuhan Jin

Joining the Smoke Signal has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. After working as a writer and copyeditor, I see a tremendous improvement both in my writing and personality. The organization has been a highlight of my high school journey, and while it can be quite stressful at times, I’ve pushed myself past my limits to create works that just get better each time. The editors, senior writers, and Mrs. Cohen helped me develop critical thinking skills that I’ll use just about everywhere in life, not just while writing. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work with such an amazing, tight-knit group of people that I’m glad to call my second home. — Staff Writer Anandita Devata

Whether it’s interviewing community members or highlighting underrepresented topics in today’s media, working with such dedicated groups of writers and editors in the Smoke Signal has undoubtedly made some of my most rewarding, impactful experiences! I highly recommend that everyone join this wonderful organization! — Staff Writer Vidyuth Sridhar

Being a part of the Smoke Signal has given me so many opportunities to grow as a writer and as a person. With each event I cover and article I write, I am able to work with a group of passionate and creative writers and editors who have all pushed me to think and step outside of my comfort zone. We have space to make mistakes, and most importantly we are able to learn from these mistakes and also our peers. Going through the process of pitching for articles, making outlines, conducting interviews, finishing my drafts, and finally getting to see my work published is definitely hard work, but it’s also gratifying work, and I’m really glad I have this opportunity to not only challenge myself, but also be able to do so in a very supportive and collaborative environment. — Staff Writer Anushka Vasudev

Jennie Wang