From Campus DJ to Broadcasting Pioneer: My Journey in Radio

My experience working as a DJ for my college radio station played a crucial role in shaping my career in radio. I had the fortunate opportunity to work beyond just playing music; it was a place where I learned valuable skills and lessons that have stayed with me throughout my broadcasting career.

Early Beginnings at WUVT

It all started in 1972 when, as a freshman at Virginia Tech, a friend introduced me to WUVT, the student-run radio station. WUVT had two components: an AM carrier current system and a 10-watt FM transmitter. The carrier current system was particularly unique, as it transmitted signals over power lines, allowing students to tune in to classical music and other student-related news within the campus.

While I was initially more interested in classical music, Joe Staniulis, a staff member at WUVT, was intrigued by my background in electrical engineering and offered me a position to handle the AM broadcasts. This marked my first step into the world of radio and provided a hands-on experience that was invaluable.

From Announcer to Program Director

As time progressed, WUVT FM grew in popularity, and my role expanded to become the program director. I was responsible for organizing programming and coordinating with professors to create a diverse playlist of music and educational content. The FM station played classical music in the evenings and jazz during the day, catering to different listener preferences.

One of the highlights of my time at WUVT was hosting live broadcasts from the coffee house in the student center on Friday nights. This allowed me to engage with the community and introduce them to various musical genres, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

DJing and Staffing

Being a "DJ" at WUVT FM was a more hands-on experience. As a student, I didn't have a commercial schedule to adhere to, which allowed me to experiment with different formats and programming styles. Reading children's books on Sunday mornings was a unique addition to our programming and provided a fun, educational element for young listeners.

Managing staff and organizing staff meetings was a crucial part of my responsibilities as the FM program director. These meetings helped develop my leadership skills and understanding of teamwork, which were invaluable in my subsequent professional roles.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the challenges WUVT faced was staff shortages, especially during podcasts and the FM transmitter's limited operating hours. To address this, we organized fundraisers and extended broadcast hours on weekends, bringing in more volunteers to keep the station running.

The transition from AM to FM was particularly interesting. The AM station was very popular, so when WUVT FM started receiving rock listeners, there was a bit of tension. However, we found a solution by giving each other shows on opposite bands at the same time, which demonstrated our commitment to the campus community.

The Impact of WUVT

WUVT not only provided a platform for personal growth but also had a broader impact on the students and community. Many of my fellow volunteers went on to have successful careers in broadcasting, including the FCC, commercial radio stations, and television. My relationship with WUVT extended beyond just DJing and broadcasting; it was a community of like-minded individuals who shared a passion for radio.

My time at WUVT was instrumental in shaping my broadcasting career. I earned a degree in classical music and worked at a commercial station, playing both classical and popular music. Despite some setbacks, I eventually became a professional DJ and engineer. As a hobbyist, I earned a license to operate as a "HAM" operator, further cementing my love for radio.

Lessons Learned and Future Impact

Working at WUVT taught me valuable skills such as managing a staff, developing programming, and understanding the importance of community engagement. The lessons I learned there have stayed with me throughout my professional life, influencing my approach to broadcasting and my commitment to the community.

Looking back, my experience at WUVT was a defining moment in my life. It not only helped me launch my career but also provided a network of friends and contacts that extended beyond the radio industry. The skills and experiences I gained there have made a lasting impact on my professional and personal life.