issue story

ASSIGNMENT: Think of, report and write an issue story. An “issue” means a problem, concern or question that you have noticed on campus or off campus. Hypothetical examples: UA teachers give too much homework. UA is doing a good/bad job of preventing COVID-19. Tuscaloosa doesn’t have enough music venues. Do reporting to explain why things are the way they are and why some people think change is needed. This assignment touches on journalism’s mission: To expose issues to (maybe) bring change.

— Reporting must show balance. Present both sides of an issue and get response to criticisms.

Story must include at least four sources. At least three must be human sources (with first and last names; no anonymous sources). If you wish, a government or academic document or report may count as one source. You may use media and public relations sources with full credit but they do NOT count as a source for purposes of this requirement. All interviews must be in-person or by videoconference or by phone (no email or social media or texting).  At the end of the story, list names of all interviewees and contact information (ask for a phone number or email address).

600 to 800 words in length

HERE IS MY TOPIC ISSUE:

The issue I am choosing is how much weight Greek life at the University of Alabama holds. Using examples such as homecoming this year and how the “winner” (who is in Greek life) didn’t actually win. Mention the secret society known as the “machine” and how that affects a lot of the major elections at this school including homecoming queen, SGA president, etc.

Here are some websites to give you more insight on homecoming and the machine
https://cw.ua.edu/83435/news/mclean-moore-crowned-homecoming-queen-despite-election-violations-and-insufficient-votes/

https://cw.ua.edu/65356/news/tracking-the-machine-a-timeline-of-uas-underground-greek-organization/

Interview 4 people on this issue and incorporate their responses in the essay through direct quotes. Interview a student on campus that isn’t in Greek life and see their reaction. Interview someone in Greek life and see if they feel the same way.