Where are you getting your news from?

I read the news every day. By the news, I don’t mean just skimming a local paper. I get headlines every day from three major newspapers delivered by RSS feeds. I get e-mail newsletters on every imaginable subject. I read blogs and websites.

It takes me at least an hour to get up to date. I’m an extremist, although I’m willing to claim it’s very worthwhile. However, I’m not evangelical to expect all of this from you.

On the other hand, I can’t see why any newspaper editor or reporter doesn’t take the time to check out a couple of specific pieces of information every morning.

Google Alerts: Why not let Google tell you whenever somebody writes something about your school? I actually got clued into a story on campus before the administration knew about it because of Google. Put your school’s name in quotes, as well as important figures on campus – you’ll always be surprised what turns up on figures in administration.

Your alumni magazine: I’ve seen alumni magazines swipe stories from the student paper more than once. It’s once a month and at a lot of schools you can get it online.

Your local daily: Given that I think you should read a copy cover to cover, I understand most people have no inclination. But take the time to run over the local headlines online, at least. You never know what kinds of stories will pop up in your neighborhood, and most locals will still keep you up to date on national news.

The Chronicle of Higher Education: Call me a nerd, but seriously – I have gotten some amazing leads out of this magazine.

I’ve got a huge long list of further recommendations, but I won’t make you suffer. Think about it, though – what’s your best source for news about your school?