You may call me the new kid in town, formally known as The Daily Eastern News’ editor in chief for the summer and fall semesters.

As editor in chief, I hope to accomplish a few things, which you, the reader, will hopefully enjoy.

First, I want the newspaper to turn into a more visually appealing publication featuring more graphics, sidebars and dominant art. I want you to pick up the newspaper everyday because you notice something different, interesting or unique about it.

Second, I want to see better stories in the newspaper. I’m just like the next guy who wants to be more intrigued by the stories in the newspaper.

Both of these goals will take time, but I hope you begin to see the progression of these goals throughout the summer and into the fall semester.

One thing that will help me accomplish both goals is a bigger staff. For now, you’ll be seeing a select few names writing stories in the newspaper because we are a tad short staffed.

I encourage anyone who is interested in being a part of something this summer – writing, taking photographs, designing pages, or copy editing – to give the DEN a call and let us know you’re interested.

You don’t have to be a journalism major or communication studies major to work for us.

If you have an interest in doing anything I’ve listed above, call us or email me.

We’ve had a variety of different majors in the newsroom for as long as I’ve been here. I’ve met students from political science, English, history, theatre arts, and graphic design to name just a few.

Working for the DEN will not only offer valuable work experience with writing, photographing, editing and designing, but it will allow you to be a part of a fun group of students.

I’ve met almost all of my friends in the newsroom and having worked at the DEN for two years now, I have many great memories of current and former staff members.

Believe it or not, it is fun to work here.

As a reporter, you might have the opportunity to talk to some of the elite members of this university, community and nation.

In my experience, I have been able to talk to people such as Gary Reed, this spring’s Daily Eastern News Person of the Year; Bob Spoo, the football team’s head coach; Sean Payton, the NFL’s New Orleans Saints’ head coach; Barbara Burke, Eastern’s athletic director; Adrian Clayborn, former defensive end for the Iowa Hawkeys and the 20th pick in this April’s NFL Draft; and Brady Sallee, the women’s basketball head coach.

If you’re not interested in reporting, photographing, designing or editing, maybe you’re interested in voicing your opinion.

Our opinions section would be for you. If you have an opinion on something, come to us and you could turn into a columnist for the newspaper.

There are many opportunities in working for the DEN and I hope you take advantage of them.

See you soon.

Alex McNamee is a junior journalism major. He can be reached at 581-7942 or at [email protected].