About Morning Sign Out
A student org at UC San Diego writing about health, science, and medicine so it actually makes sense.
What We Do
We write articles about new research, public health topics, wellness, and medicine. We're all students at UCSD, and we try to explain scientific papers in a way that doesn't require a biology degree to follow.
If you've ever read a headline of a scientific breakthrough and thought:
"what does this actually mean for me?",
that's the kind of gap we're trying to close.
Why "Morning Sign Out"?
In hospitals, a "sign out" is when one care team hands off a patient to the next. You have to sum up what's going on clearly enough that the new team can pick things up without missing anything important.
We liked that idea. Take something complicated, distill it down, and pass it along in a way that's actually useful. That's what we try to do with every article.
Joining MSO
How to Apply
Fill out an application for the position(s) you're interested in and send it to the email on the form. You can apply for multiple positions. No prior experience required -- the quality of your application matters more than your resume.
Any year, any major. If you're professional and dedicated, you're welcome to apply.
Weekly Time Commitment
| Board Members | 5 hrs |
| Writers | 2-3 hrs |
| Editors | 2-3 hrs |
| Graphic Editors | 2-3 hrs |
These are averages -- some weeks are heavier, some lighter. We expect at least a one-year commitment.
For Writers
Writers pick their own topics within their assigned section. Articles are short -- around 400 words, about 1-2 paragraphs -- so readers can get through them quickly. The writing cycle is per UCSD quarter: write, edit with your editor, get graphics done, then publish.
If you don't pick a topic by the deadline, one will be assigned to you.
FAQ
Can I apply for multiple positions?
Yes -- apply to as many as you're interested in.
Do I need prior experience?
No. Experience helps, but it won't make or break your application. We care more about the quality of what you submit than what's on your resume.
Do I have to be a certain year in school?
Nope. Any year, any age. Just bring professionalism and dedication.
How many spots are open?
We don't set strict numbers -- we accept people based on the strength of their application.
What are deadlines like?
We take deadlines seriously. The writing cycle runs on the UCSD quarter. Other project deadlines vary by scope. If you're juggling a heavy quarter, let your team lead know early.
How long do I have to stay?
We ask for at least one year. Life happens and we get that, but we generally don't write letters of recommendation for people who leave early.
Question not answered here?
Contact us here and we will help you out.