Why Purdue and IU’s Decision to Cut Student Newspapers Silences Campus Voices: An Opinion Piece

The Crucial Role of Student Journalism

Student journalism plays an essential role in keeping college students informed. Yet, it faces challenges, especially as universities distance themselves from these vital outlets.

Recently, Purdue University announced it would stop supporting its independent student newspaper, The Purdue Exponent. This change means the university will no longer assist with distribution and seeks to separate its brand from the paper altogether.

Quint Holguin, a sophomore at Purdue involved with the Exponent, expressed his surprise and disappointment. “It was shocking to see a relationship built over so many years end abruptly,” he said. Purdue cited an expired contract from 2014 as the reason for this shift, but this contract had never been a problem before. For over a decade, the Exponent had an informal agreement with the university for distribution.

Beyond Purdue, other universities face similar challenges. At Indiana University, the Indiana Daily Student has cut its print distribution, moving from weekly issues to a few times each month. They have struggled to maintain their funding, relying on student fees. Last year, a leaked document revealed plans for a financial merger, which worsened the situation. Despite their print editions being profitable, the IDS has dealt with nearly $1 million in debt and recently faced a refusal for crucial funding from the university’s provost.

The importance of print media in student journalism cannot be overstated. Jonathan Frey, editor-in-chief of the IDS, emphasized that physical copies serve as the “first draft of history.” These tangible records help reflect the student experience authentically, allowing future generations to understand what college life was like.

Social media also plays a part in student journalism today. Many students share their views and stories on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. This blend of traditional journalism and social media helps broaden the conversation but can dilute the depth of reporting.

According to a recent survey by the College Media Association, about 70% of student journalists feel supported by their schools. However, increasing disconnections from institutions could jeopardize future support.

Historically, programs like these have helped shape successful journalists’ careers. Without access to student papers, aspiring journalists may miss out on critical hands-on experience. As one former student said, “I attribute my entire career to the skills I learned at my college paper.”

In a world where misinformation is prevalent, student journalism is more important than ever. It gives students a platform to voice their opinions and share their experiences. Colleges should recognize the value of these publications instead of pushing them aside.

Ultimately, every student should have the chance to participate in journalism, just as I did during my time at my university. Our voices matter, and student journalism is a powerful way to ensure those voices are heard.

For a deeper understanding of the financial challenges in college journalism, check out the findings from the College Media Association.

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