A Glimpse into the World of College Radio

By Claire Hansen
Blog Content Contributor

With College Radio Day falling this week and applications for next semester opening up, this week is an exciting one for KTSW. I’ve only been here for one short month, but I am undeniably eager to share with the world my experiences gained thus far in light of these substantial events, with the hopes of it maybe reaching someone like me, last semester — on the outside looking in. As everyone else provides their reasons for why college radio is important and should be listened to, I would like to discuss why you should join.

I believe almost everyone at Texas State has probably heard about KTSW in one way or another. For me, it was one of those things I always saw floating around after switching my major to one of the Mass Communication variety, but like most other extracurriculars it remained in the back of my mind with all the other organizations I thought about joining but never actually did. So, I dedicate this post to anyone out there who feels that desperate longing to be a part of something, but doesn’t know how or where to make the first move.

We have 15 departments, which include but are not limited to: music, news, sports, web content, sales, community relations and social media. One can apply for up to three different positions, and each one will guarantee a unique experience. If you don’t already listen to KTSW on the radio (you’re missing out), then you might not know that we also have a radio show every weekday from 4-6pm, Other Side Drive (OSD). OSD exists to bring all the departments in KTSW together through newscasts, sports updates, music reviews and so much more, with the help of our talented and energetic DJs. We also throw several events each month, some of which you’ve probably heard of, like Harvest Live, Rock Your Chakras, Third Thursday and Underground Excellence. Each of these, as well as any other event thrown by KTSW, is a great excuse to go out and have fun while supporting local bands and the community.

The variety of opportunities within this institution paves way for a diverse mixture of humans, all coyly unique and cool as cucumbers. I can’t tell you how joyful and warming it is to be on the inside now, to go to the meetings and see all the different groups within this organization come together and share all the wonderful things going on in their department. We congratulate each other constantly and everyone is always encouraging you to do your best. Heck, it’s hard to even need encouragement when you’re surrounded by so many dazzling, uplifting souls. My favorite thing about KTSW is that it’s the perfectly balanced mix between a career-enhancing opportunity and a social-life booster. It’s work and play at the same time. It’s returning to that thing you always had a knack for, but now you can do it in a semi-professional environment, around a whole bunch of really cool people who share similar interests with you.

I am positive that this gig will aid me a great deal in landing the perfect job in the future, so I highly encourage anyone who is looking for a good way to get involved and still have fun, to consider giving this a shot. It’s a magnificent opportunity brimming with oodles of unique and interesting people, and let’s not forget, you’ll have a flaming hot resume as a bonus!

KTSW is accepting applications for all positions now through October 30. If joining the happiest family at Texas State is something that sounds fun to you, click here.

Featured image by Claire Hansen.