Exploring Coffee Table Socioeconomics: Insights from The Tufts Daily Business Model You Can’t Miss!

Note: This article is part of a special feature for Daily Week to celebrate the Daily’s 45th anniversary.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the Daily, Tufts’ independent student newspaper. Its success offers valuable lessons, especially for Tufts students who may feel the business education here could be better.

The Daily is unique. It is Tufts’ only financially independent student organization, meaning it does not receive funding from the university or the Tufts Community Union (TCU). This independence allows the Daily to have its own voice and control over its content and direction. The paper runs smoothly because the editorial, business, and production teams work closely together.

The Daily has a dedicated team of seven members who manage its financial operations. This team handles everything from cash flow to client relationships and advertising. Some of the Daily’s regular clients include Boston Pads and the University Chaplaincy, which help bring in revenue. By keeping its own bank accounts, the Daily effectively manages its finances, covering day-to-day expenses like printing and student stipends.

While the Daily doesn’t share specific financial details, its business model could inspire other campus organizations. By becoming more strategic in fundraising and client relations, clubs can improve their financial health and independence from university funding. This shift could lead to new opportunities for growth and sustainability.

Understanding how successful organizations operate is crucial for students. I once received a piece of advice that stuck with me: “Intern at a Fortune 500 company to learn how big businesses work.” This insight highlights the importance of real-world experience in understanding business structures.

With its reach and financial independence, the Daily stands out as one of Tufts’ most successful student organizations. Its effective business model is something other clubs can learn from, especially in our current landscape where financial literacy is key.

Given Tufts’ limited business education options, it’s important for students—especially those with entrepreneurial ambitions—to grasp how businesses function. Even if entrepreneurship isn’t your goal, a basic understanding of business principles can be beneficial for any career. The Daily offers an excellent chance to gain insights into real-world operations, making it a unique learning opportunity for all students.