Submission Guidelines

SOE Magazine: Guidelines for Student Contributors

The School of Education Led Magazine welcomes thoughtful, creative, and reflective contributions from Daystar University students, particularly those in the School of Education. We accept personal reflections, creative writing (essays, stories, poetry), teaching experiences, campus life insights, faith-inspired pieces, educational innovations, and other original works that inspire, motivate, or challenge future educators. Submissions should be between 800 and 2500 words (shorter pieces welcome for poetry or brief reflections). Manuscripts should be submitted in Microsoft Word format. Please scan your files for viruses before submission.

Submissions are accepted on the understanding that they are original, unpublished, and not under consideration elsewhere. Publication is at the discretion of the editorial team, and all contributions undergo review (often blind) by peers or patrons for quality, relevance, and alignment with our values of faith, excellence, creativity, and positive impact. The editorial decision is final. Accepted pieces become copyrighted to Daystar University for publication in the magazine. Authors retain rights to use their work elsewhere after publication, with credit to SOE Magazine.

1. Title
   The title should be engaging, clear, and reflective of your piece's theme. List all authors who contributed significantly, along with your full name, student ID/program (e.g., B.Ed Year 3), and email address. Indicate the corresponding author if multiple contributors.

2. Abstract or Summary (Optional but Recommended)
   A brief summary (150–250 words) that captures the essence of your piece — its main theme, personal inspiration, key insights, and why it matters to fellow students or educators. Include 4–6 relevant keywords (e.g., teaching passion, faith in education, campus reflections, creative writing) to help readers discover your work.

3. Introduction / Opening
   Engage the reader with a compelling hook — a personal story, question, or vivid experience. Provide context for your reflection or creative piece, and explain its relevance to teacher training, education, faith, or personal growth at Daystar.

4. Main Body
   Share your story, insights, or creative expression clearly and authentically. Use subheadings if helpful. Draw from your experiences (classroom observations, group discussions, school visits, personal challenges, or inspirations). Be thoughtful, respectful, and encouraging — celebrate growth, innovation, resilience, and the calling to teach. Include photos, illustrations, or simple visuals if relevant (with captions and permissions if needed).

5. Conclusion / Reflection
   Summarize your key takeaway or message. End with how this experience or idea shapes you as a future educator, or inspires others in the Daystar community. Highlight positive impact, hope, or a call to action.

6. References (If Applicable)
   If you reference books, articles, Bible verses, or other sources, cite them using APA style (7th edition). Keep references minimal and relevant.

7. Authorship and Originality
   Indicate your program/year of study and any relevant experience (e.g., teaching practice). Confirm the work is original and your own (or co-authored with clear credit). Include a short bio (2–4 sentences) for publication, e.g., "Jane Doe is a third-year B.Ed student passionate about transformative education rooted in faith."

The Magazine requires assignment of publication rights to Daystar University upon acceptance. Authors must obtain permissions for any quoted material, images, or copyrighted content. We encourage inclusive, respectful, and uplifting submissions that reflect our Biblical foundation and commitment to excellence in teacher training.