Everyone is familiar with the First Amendment that protects our rights. Because of this revision to the U.S. Constitution, we enjoy the freedoms of speech, press, religion, assembly and petition.

The media’s role is largely influenced by the First Amendment. America’s newspapers are allowed to question the government, publish different points of view and serve as a watchdog for the community. By providing a forum for public debate, the media coupled with the First Amendment allow for unconstrained discussions on every topic imaginable and make our country a better place.

SMU is lucky enough to have a newspaper that is financially independent from the school. This means that it is uncensored by the university, which is in line with the First Amendment.

As written on our Web site, Student Media Company (publisher of The Daily Campus) was chartered in April 1930 to “protect the University from possible libel suits resulting from student publications,” “insure a sound financial foundation and good business management for student publications” and “insure responsible journalism,” according to a report prepared for then-President Willis M. Tate in June 1972.

The paper is student-run, and offers the closest environment to a for-profit newspaper on SMU’s campus for aspiring journalists, writers, photographers, designers and salespeople. From writing copy to selling advertisements to choosing content, students are in charge of every aspect of newspaper production.

Part of The Daily Campus’ role as SMU’s newspaper is to provide the community with a fair and accurate record of events at the university, and to serve as a forum for debate on issues relevant to SMU. As a student, staff or faculty member, alumnus and even a parent, you can voice your opinion on anything. Everyone should take advantage of this opportunity and exercise his or her right of free speech.

While we welcome and desire input and feedback, we are professional in our operations. We strive to have as much original copy as possible, especially on the opinion page. Our goal is to have well-written, intelligent pieces. If you’d like to have your voice heard, please send us an e-mail. We’d love to have your input.

We’d also like to invite you to join our staff. If you’re even a little curious about our operations, stop by our office in 314 Hughes-Trigg. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have and help you gain newsroom experience.

SMU, The Daily Campus has a lot to offer. Take advantage of these opportunities.