Chicago Studies: Web Content Development
Chicago Studies engages the intellectual, creative, and civic energies of University of Chicago undergraduates in the life of the diverse communities that make up this city. Embedded in the Office of the Dean of the College and supporting all the Collegiate Divisions, Chicago Studies provides opportunities for students and faculty to engage with and learn from the people and institutions of Chicago, encouraging integration of these experiences with their academic interests and the development of reciprocal collaborations between the campus and the city. Through Chicago Studies, the College seeks to make possible intensive, place-based academic encounters, while also helping students critically think about cities through urban-focused course offerings.
Position Summary
Reporting to the Director, Chicago Studies & Experiential Learning, and supported by the Programming Coordinator, Urban Curricular Programs, this student will support the web communications of Chicago Studies during the 2020-2021 academic year, maintaining current content while producing additional story-form pages to reflect new programming. The position will have particular responsibility (and creative autonomy) in developing three new web neighborhoods devoted to profiles of Chicago-focused faculty, key cultural/civic institution partners, and introductions of Chicago neighborhoods and themes. The web content development position will work closely with and support the efforts of the Events Promotion & Social Media student staff and will also contribute content to Chicago Studies’ regular newsletter. The ideal candidate is a creative and mature writer who is curious, deeply attentive, and eager to elevate the voices of Chicagoans from all walks of life while maintaining their own unique perspective as a UChicago student. The position’s responsibilities may be fulfilled from Chicago or remotely, as circumstances permit.
Essential Functions
Maintenance and Development of Chicago Studies Web Content
- Update and maintain Chicago Studies web content (http://chicagostudies.uchicago.edu) on homepage and in core thematic areas (safety, classes, research, programming, certificate)
- In close collaboration with Programming Coordinator and Events Promotion & Social Media student staff, promote and document ongoing Chicago Studies programming through production of blog/story-form content, including long-form content when appropriate
- With Director, explore additional resources for enhancing Chicago Studies’ web presence through visualizations, multimedia, etc.
Focal Project Areas
- Propose, research, and co-develop additional web resources to enhance the new “welcome” website theme (which introduces the city as an object of discovery, study, and engagement)
- Research and co-develop content for forthcoming web neighborhoods profiling Chicago-engaged faculty and key regional partnerships
Ongoing Responsibilities
- With Events Promotion & Social Media student staff, produce regular Chicago Studies newsletter and other directed communications for various Chicago Studies audiences
- When possible/appropriate, support Chicago Studies’ student-facing programming through personal promotion and/or participation
- Track any expenses associated with Chicago Studies activities and document all GEMS charges appropriately for Director’s timely reconciliation
Qualifications & Skills
- Excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills required
- Previous experience in reporting, writing, marketing, or communications strongly preferred
- Proficiency with basic computer applications required: Microsoft Office (Word and Excel required), Google Suite, email
- Previous knowledge of HTML, CSS, and Drupal preferred, but not required (College web-template-specific training will be provided)
- Proficiency with graphic design and desktop publication in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat) preferred
- Proficiency with social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) preferred
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, particularly in achieving research-related goals
- Demonstrated ability to achieve project aims in close collaboration with others
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple short-term and long-term projects to meet specific deadlines; strong follow-through
- Demonstrated ability to problem-solve and respond to challenges and inquiries in a timely matter
- Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary research acumen