The “comp” is the official way to become an editor of The Harvard Crimson. Crimson comps are designed for you to learn while having fun and meeting new people. The word “comp” does not imply “competition,” it stands for “competency.” Anyone who demonstrates competency in completing the requirements of the comp will be elected an editor of The Harvard Crimson. Once elected an editor of The Crimson, you are always considered an editor.

There are nine different boards you can comp: News, Arts, Business, Editorial, Design, Sports, Photo, Information Technology and Fifteen Minutes.

Comps are scheduled to be roughly 10 weeks in length, although there is no time limit. You can finish the comp at your own pace; don’t feel obligated to spend all of your time at The Crimson in order to finish under some strict deadline. At the same time, we hope to create an environment that you enjoy working in.

The goals of each comp are twofold: first, to teach you the requisite skills to be a productive part of the staff (whether as a reporter, photographer, designer or business associate); second, to get you acclimated to the culture, the traditions, the idiosyncrasies and the people that make up The Harvard Crimson.

The Crimson offers a wealth of resources, knowledge and friendships. It has a rich history that extends back through the heart of the Harvard experience. Friendships formed here can last for a lifetime.