How do I apply to join UTDULR?

Applications for Staff Writer and Staff Editor positions are typically released during the first month of each academic semester. Applicants are required to complete a general application, along with a writing and editing supplement.

No prior experience is necessary; however, students are strongly encouraged to take RHET 4320: Legal Research and Writing to strengthen their foundational skills.

What is the expected time commitment?

Staff Writers and Editors are expected to attend one weekly team meeting (approximately one hour) with their Managing Editor and group to collaboratively review drafts and provide feedback.

In addition, students are required to attend a 30–45 minute workshop every five to six weeks that focuses on legal writing, editing techniques, and citation formatting. Social events are held 1–2 times per month at external venues and are optional.

How is UTDULR structured?

Staff Writers and Editors are paired together and placed into small teams, each overseen by a Managing Editor. Each Managing Editor supervises 2–3 teams and conducts weekly group meetings to facilitate collaborative editing and review.

Writing assignments—including outlines, drafts, and final submissions—are spaced 2–3 weeks apart to allow students time to conduct thorough research while balancing other academic commitments.

How can I become an officer?

The Executive Board consists of the following roles:

• Editor-in-Chief

• Vice President

• Executive Editor(s)

• Managing Editors

• Administrative Officers: Operations Director, Finance Director, Social Media & Marketing Director, and Technology & Layout Director

Applications for Executive Board positions typically open during the final month of each semester.

• Any student may apply for Administrative Officer positions.

• To be eligible for Managing Editor, Executive Editor, Vice President, or Editor-in-Chief, candidates must have previously served on the Executive Board.

• Some applicants may be required to participate in an interview as part of the selection process

Are there any fees to join?

There are no membership fees required to participate in UTDULR.

Social event costs and merchandise purchases are pay-as-you-attend, and the organization subsidizes a portion of these expenses to keep costs affordable for all members.

Do I need to be a pre-law or political science major?

No, UTDULR welcomes students from all academic backgrounds who are interested in legal and policy writing, regardless of major.

Can I join in the middle of the semester?

No. Due to the structured nature of our editorial and writing cycles, applications are only accepted at the beginning of each semester.

Can I participate if I am involved in other student organizations or programs?

Yes. Our scheduling is designed to be flexible, allowing members to balance UTDULR responsibilities alongside other academic or extracurricular commitments.

Will my writing be published?

All submissions undergo a comprehensive editorial review process.

• Journals may be published on a rolling basis throughout the semester.

• Longer-form essays and articles may be selected for inclusion in UTDULR’s annual publication, depending on quality and editorial approval.

How can I contact the UTDULR for further questions?

You can reach us via email at utdulr@utdallas.edu or by using the contact form on our website. We also welcome inquiries through our social media channels.