In college, students volunteer for organizations not only to help others, but also to gain experience in the real world. Although a student is not usually paid for his work, once he makes a commitment to the organization it is essential that he follows through. If a student were to volunteer for an organization, whether it be an official internship or practice for his future career, not following through could affect his future.
The George Street Observer thrives on volunteer writers. As a student-run publication through the College, there is not enough money available to pay each interested writer for their work. Therefore, the newspaper relies on eager students hoping to build their resumes with published newspaper clips. However, since the newspaper is completely run by students, problems with following through on responsibilities are quite common.
Every student who volunteers to write has other responsibilities, including schoolwork, other jobs and their personal lives. Keep in mind, however, that the permanent staff of the George Street Observer also has similar non-GSO commitments.
Student writers tend to take on more than they can handle, and realize it too late. For example, a writer will walk into the newspaper, volunteer to write a story and then drop it (not turn it in or write it at all), usually the day of or after the deadline.  The student is given a week to interview the necessary sources, compile the information and write the story. The editorial staff is always available to answer questions or help with any problems that may occur, but this does not seem to be enough. 
It is understandable that writers may have other commitments, but when one takes on a responsibility, that responsibility should be taken seriously.  Not only is it flat-out rude not to follow through on a commitment, but ditching a story at the last minute forces the respective section editor to take on that responsibility and write an article to fill the space the writer was supposed to fill.  Such irresponsible behavior slows down the production of the paper and adds stress to the editorial staff. If a student has a task to complete for a job, would the student simply not complete it? No, because the student would be fired.
If a student commits to write for the newspaper, they should treat their commitment as a job.  We do not force anyone to write.  By dropping a story or article at the last moment, the writer has singlehandedly weakened the quantity and quality of the articles, and the quality of the newspaper as a whole. The staff will lose respect for the student, and doubt her ability to report and complete a story on time if she volunteers in the future. How can a prospective writer avoid this?  Follow through on your commitment on time.