As major news outlets continue shelling out for a very expensive election season (Debates: $500k-$1m a pop; Convention coverage: ~$2m), some might be looking to cut corners. Networks like CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News already have some version of a user-generated news product, where viewers are solicited to send in tips and photos, that's less about getting all Web 2.0 than it is about getting everyday citizens to act as unpaid reporters (or so the inner cynic in us believe). But that doesn't mean the media are cooling down — quite the opposite. With the feisty Democratic primary done with, it's time to explore every possible angle leading up to November. Like what the temperature is on college campuses. Which explains why CBSNews.com, WashingtonPost.com, and university press syndicate UWIRE.com are teaming to find "15 to 20 top reporters" to keep their readers plugged in to who's waving what campaign banner on the Quad. They need everybody from investigative journalists to photographers to satirists to play a part. Interested? Fantastic. Just tell them how you like to be paid: Cash, cheque, wire transfer, or … exposure.

From a "job" listing make the university rounds:

POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT: Political Correspondent for soon-to-be-launched “Youth Vote ’08” blog on CBS News.com, Washingtonpost.com and UWIRE.com. UWIRE is looking for 15 to 20 top reporters, writers, opinion columnists, photographers, videographers, multimedia producers and cartoonists to blog. We will give you a vehicle for coverage while you gain experience, exposure and clips. If selected, you should own your portion of the blog by dreaming big and coming up with original ideas that examine issues important to students and the youth vote – and have a little fun. Satirical writers - make us laugh out loud. Investigative reporters – find out what really goes on behind the scenes of the College Republicans and Democrats. Photographers – capture a moment. Videographers – give students a voice in this race. Responsibilities: Each participant must post at least once a week to build a consistent readership and develop a voice. Posting more often is encouraged. All posts should relate to 18-to-24-year-olds and the youth vote. If you don’t have time to blog, we’re also looking for Web savvy people to look for the top collegiate and professional political stories of the day. This position is available independently or in conjunction with being a correspondent. Compensation: Exposure. Your work will be distributed on UWIRE and among professional outlets we partner with including CBS and The Washington Post. Space will be available for links to your R and UWIRE profile. Reimbursement or compensation for travel and work will be considered on an individual basis. To Apply: Please submit the following information by July 15 to Michelle Starr at michelle@uwire.com: R. Clips or links to published work. Five to 10 ideas for your portion of the blog. What would you cover? How would you cover it? 6/24/08