Unlock Your Future: Why Joining Varsity’s Social Media Team This Lent Could Change Your Life Forever!

Varsity, the oldest and only independent student newspaper at the University of Cambridge, is calling for new talent to join its social media team. Applications for positions within the team have reopened for Lent 2025, offering a unique opportunity for students to engage deeply with Cambridge’s vibrant discourse and history. Established in 1947, Varsity has a storied tradition of holding institutions accountable and representing student interests with integrity and creativity. This is not just a newspaper; it's a platform where student voices can flourish.

Over the decades, Varsity has broken significant stories, including the groundbreaking report in 1953 on James Watson and Francis Crick’s discovery of the structure of DNA. More recently, the publication has tackled contemporary issues, such as the controversy surrounding “race-realist” fellow Nathan Cofnas and the potential loss of accreditation for Cambridge’s veterinary course. These instances highlight Varsity's commitment to impactful journalism that shapes public discussion.

The newspaper is not limited to news reporting; it also encourages students to share their opinions, conduct interviews, and investigate topics of interest. There are sections dedicated to fashion, music, film, and theatre, giving contributors a wide array of avenues to express their creativity. With the growing importance of social media in modern journalism, Varsity is particularly interested in refreshing its online presence to broaden its readership and engagement.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their applications by midday on January 26th. Essential elements of the application include:

• Your full name, subject, year, and college.
• The specific role(s) you wish to apply for.
• Willingness to consider alternative positions if your preferred choice is not available.
• A summary of any extracurricular commitments during the Lent term and your ability to produce content from mid-December through the beginning of term.

This term, Varsity is particularly keen to recruit an additional Head of Social Media to collaborate with the existing team. Candidates should have experience creating quality content for platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Successful applicants are expected to bring innovative ideas to rejuvenate Varsity’s social media strategy, focusing on multimedia and short-form content, including Instagram carousels and Reels.

The Heads of Social Media will oversee Varsity's social media output throughout the Lent term and during the Michaelmas and Easter breaks. Their responsibilities include promoting Varsity’s journalism across social platforms, posting content roundups, and conceiving new ways to engage with the readership online. Applicants will also be evaluated on their critique of Varsity’s current social media presence, relevant experience, and creative ideas for posts or stories.

Varsity operates without any funding from the University of Cambridge or its constituent Colleges, relying heavily on advertising and reader donations for support. In light of current financial constraints, the publication is exploring inventive ways to serve its readership through both digital and print content. Readers are encouraged to contribute as little as £1 to assist with operational costs.

As students prepare for a new term, this is an opportune moment to join a publication that not only informs but also empowers. With editors Daisy Bates and Calum Murray at the helm for the Lent term, prospective applicants are invited to reach out with questions about joining Varsity’s dynamic social media team. This is a chance to be part of a storied tradition that continues to shape student life and discourse at Cambridge.