If you are contacted for an interview, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. You have the right to talk to the media, or not to talk to the media. Speaking to the media is a choice. It is OK to say yes. It is OK to say no. It is OK to not answer a question that makes you feel uncomfortable, even if you have agreed to an interview. 
  2. You are individually responsible for what you say to media. Remember, once you've said the words, you can't take them back nor will most reporters allow to you see or edit the piece before publication or broadcast. There is no such thing as "off the record."
  3. Before supplying information about someone else to a member of the media, please respect the other person's right to privacy. This information includes, but is not limited to, another person's cell phone number, class schedule, room floor and/or number, or roommates' names.
  4. All media who wish to come on the Grinnell Campus should check in with the communication team. If you have concerns about media on campus, please notify communication (x3404). During the evenings and weekends, please notify Security (x4600).
  5. Because they are private living spaces, residence halls are off limits to the media unless a written exception has been made by Student Affairs and the communication team (a staff member is required to accompany the media in this situation). Please do not invite media into residence halls or College-owned houses. If a member of the media is in the residence halls, please call Security (x4600).
  6. Most other buildings on campus, such as the Joe Rosenfield '25 Center, are public spaces. Members of the media are allowed in those public spaces. Media are frequently accompanied by a member of the communication team.