Write for the MCH Blog!

Interested in writing for the blog? Review the guidelines, process, topic ideas, and examples below.

Please note that this guidance has been updated since the example blogs shared below were written.

Click here to access the CoE-MCH Blog!

GUIDELINES

Format and Style

  • Blog entries should be about 2-5 paragraphs in length (no more than 500 words)
  • Blog posts should be polished and edited by the author for clarity and flow.
  • Limit use of discipline-specific/technical jargon (if possible).
  • Use the active voice. Strive for active verbs. Avoid “be” in all its forms.
  • Present results in past tense.
  • Discuss tools in present tense.
  • Use oxford commas
  • Try to keep sentences under 23 words to improve readability.
  • Bulleted lists and short paragraphs are easier to read on the Web.
  • Blogs are usually informal and written in a conversational style. However, please still be respectful and mindful that we are an academic institution.
  • If you make claims or refer to research, provide links to reputable sources.

Content

  • Consider before writing: What useful information will my blog entry give the reader?
  • Try to include a hook to grab the reader’s attention.
  • Describe how the work or experiences are related to MCH and the COE
  • Blog entries should include a concise, engaging title
  • Provide a descriptive byline(s) for the author(s)
  • Provide a landscape image to be used across the top of the blog post (if available).
  • Offer an online resource for the reader who wants to know more
  • If available, provide a link where readers can get tools, materials, etc. that they can use in their community.
  • As appropriate, provide links to other organizations’ websites or bio pages.
  • Write about a current MCH issue that you are passionate about

PROCESS

Please contact Amber Uskali with blog entries or ideas at adimasc2@uic.edu. She will review and edit any entries to ensure they meet all the guidelines and may provide suggestions for improving clarity. Please reach out to her with questions as well.

POSSIBLE TOPICS

Here are a few ideas for possible blog entry topics:

  • Summary of the author’s presentation if writing about conference travel
  • Meaningful take home messages or opportunities/insights from conference travel
  • Interviewing or telling the story of someone doing amazing work in MCH
  • Current MCH students: Writing about your experience related to a conference you attended, your capstone, your volunteer work, a site visit for a MCH class, or your practicum. Tell your story – why did you choose to work in MCH? What kind of work do you want to do in the future?
  • Write an entry about the research project you are working on

EXAMPLES