Advice On The Broadcast Major
posted on 08/24/2009
Broadcasting, in its simplest form, is the transfer of information from a central point to a wide area of recipients. Students who have become passionate about radio or television go to college with the idea that a major in radio or television broadcasting (an area loosely named Communications) seem to be under the impression that engaging in such a major will lead them to work in the field. While that is true for some, the vast majority of those pursuing a broadcasting degree seldom wind up in either radio or television. The percentage of those going into those fields favors television. In many jobs in television there are requirements of a college degree. If you happened to major in broadcasting, that helps, but any college degree-combined with a given ability or look-will get you in the door.
The true enigma in this area is radio. Many teenagers listen to the radio today because of the personalities on the air. Such shows as "The Bob and Tom" show deliver a strong dose of comedy early in the morning and teens catch the show on their way to school (some catch it during school, but that's a whole different column). A survey of well-known and not-so-well known broadcast professionals will reveal that the majority did not go to college for broadcasting. Those who did go to college majored in other areas, while the rest started in radio before their college years.
So, the advice I am presenting is this: Before going to college to become a radio DJ or a television news reporter, study the market. The only jobs in radio that are generally posted requiring a college degree are the sales jobs, or other positions in the business side of the operation. Television is much easier to get a career going after college, while anyone who is passionate about radio and becoming a significant name in the field should give serious consideration to starting now. Look for a station in your area hiring for part timers and pursue your dream in that manner. More radio personalities have gone this route, fallen in love with the whole aspect of radio, and have become very successful.
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