How to Write for The Sun Star

The Sun Star is an independent, student-run news organization funded by the UAF student body. We are always looking for fresh voices, campus news, and creative content. Whether you want to pitch a one-time article, get paid for a freelance piece, or drop an anonymous campus rumor, here is how you can get involved:

1. SEND A SCOOP (Anonymous Tips & Story Ideas)

Heard something wild, funny, important, or just plain weird happening on campus or around Fairbanks/North Pole? Point us in the right direction!

What makes a good scoop?

• Campus Issues: "There is mold in the dorms and I have photos."
• Research & Profiles: "A professor is doing research on sled dog genetics."
• Local Culture: "The coffee shop in North Pole just started poetry nights."
• Hidden Events: "There is a secret music show happening in Fine Arts."

2. SUBMIT FREELANCE WORK (Get Published!)

Have a completed article, photo gallery, or review you want to see in print and online? Submit your work directly to our editing team. Up to 10 files (Max 1GB). Larger files can be emailed to editor@uafsunstar.com.

3. FREELANCE PAYMENT REQUEST (Get Paid!)

Already had a freelance piece approved and published by The Sun Star? Fill out this form so our business team can process your payment. Note: All content remains the sole creative property of its creators. The Sun Star retains non-exclusive permission to publish material in print and online in perpetuity.

Send us a scoop
Freelance payments
Freelance submissions

The Sun Star 2026-2027 Freelance Rates

Feature article: $82

Standard article: $50

Column: $15

Photo: $7

Submission Guidelines

The Sun Star welcomes freelance submissions from the UAF community. While all submissions are edited for grammar, punctuation, and clarity, we expect work to meet a collegiate standard of professionalism. We follow AP Style guidelines.

What to Include with Your Draft

Please include the following at the very top of your submitted Word Document or Google Doc:

  • Your full name and email address.

  • The working title of your piece.

  • A brief 1–3 sentence summary of the article.

Article Formats & Requirements

1. Feature Articles (Deep Dives & Profiles)

  • Length: 800 to 2,000+ words (Minimum of 5 paragraphs).

  • Visuals: Include 2–5 high-quality photographs when possible.

  • Tone: Engaging, narrative-driven storytelling.

2. Standard Articles (News & Event Coverage)

  • Length: 300 to 750 words (Minimum of 3 paragraphs).

  • Visuals: Include 1–2 high-quality photographs when possible.

  • Tone: Objective, fact-based reporting with clear sources/citations.

3. Columns & Opinions

  • Length: 300 to 700 words.

  • Focus: Personal commentary, specialized expertise, or opinion.

  • Policy: While we encourage debate on controversial topics, content deemed defamatory, discriminatory, or intentionally offensive will not be considered.

Photo Submission Requirements

  • Quality: Images must be high-resolution and sharp enough for large digital screens.

  • File Size: Files should generally be at least 1 MB in size.

  • Captions: Include a brief description of who/what is in the photo, along with the photographer's name for credit.

The Sun Star reserves the right to make exceptions to these guidelines or request additional materials when necessary.