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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I suggest a story for the website?

The UC Merced homepage highlights events, people or information of interest to the campus community and beyond. We have an informal rotation of profiling students, faculty and staff. To submit story ideas, contact University Communications, and include the following information in your email:

  • Brief description of what the story should be about
  • Time element
  • Subject's contact information 
  • Attach photos for consideration or let us know if we need to arrange for photography

How do I start a new Web project?

  • Fill out the University Communication's Web Project Initiation Form (Web PIF).
  • Think about the audience you want to reach and plan out your messages. If you need help writing your content, we can provide writing and editing assistance.
  • Consider your timeline when submitting your proposal. It's best to start with your completion date and work backward.
  • Once your initiation form is complete, send it to the campus Web manager. We will contact you with further instructions.

How do I ensure my writing is consistent with UC Merced's preferred editorial style?

  • Use the Associated Press Stylebook.
  • Use the Chicago Manual of Style for questions not addressed by AP.
  • Use the UC Merced Editorial Style Guide for university-specific questions.

For more information, please visit the Editorial Style Guide page.

How do I get editing help from University Communications?

  • Decide whether you need a simple or comprehensive edit of your material.
  • Contact News and Social Media Director James Leonard to determine whether an editor is available.
  • Plan ample time for our editors to work on your material.
  • Send your text as a Microsoft Word document with minimal formatting.
  • Accept or reject the changes we send you using the "Track Changes" feature in Word.

For more information: Guide to Writing and Editing Services.

How do I create a publication?

  • Fill out University Communication's Print Project Initiation Form (Print PIF).
  • Decide what kind of format you want, such as a tri-fold brochure, booklet, flier or poster. If you need help with this part of the process, contact Jennifer Biancucci to discuss your format options.
  • Determine your budget. Decide how many of each printed piece you need and how much you can afford to pay per piece. These answers will help determine your options.
  • Think about the audience you want to reach and plan out your messages. If you need help writing your content, we can provide writing and editing assistance .
  • Consider your timeline when submitting your proposal. It's best to start with your completion date and work backward. With only one graphic designer on staff, we require ample lead time to give your project the attention it deserves. When preparing your timeline, make sure to include at least 10 days for your project to be printed and delivered after editing and design are complete.
  • Once your online initiation form is complete, it will be sent to Jennifer Biancucci. We will contact you with further instructions.

How do I contact approved vendors?

We have several documents available that list vendors for printing, graphic design, photography and writing. These vendors are approved by our department and provide high-quality services. You can find a printer, a writer, a designer or any other vendor to provide the services you need. Please contact University Communications for more information.

How do I get photography taken for my school, event or program?

If you have a brief, on-campus event, we may be able to assist you free of charge. Contact Veronica Adrover for more information or fill out the Photo Shoot Initation From. For events that would take more than 30 minutes to photograph or take place off campus, you should hire a freelance photographer. Contact Jennifer Biancucci for recommendations.

How do I access campus photos or graphics?

Use our Campus Images archive online to download high-resolution files of general images featuring students, events and campus sites. To see our complete photo library, contact Veronica Adrover.