How do I get started?
You can find the positions here and then there’s an application at the bottom of the page that you can fill out and submit to let us know what you want to do with us. Once you’ve submitted your application, the Station Manager will review it and then get it to the relevant manager. They’ll reach out to you to have a conversation about the organization, let you know what volunteers actually do around here, schedule a training session and provide you with any forms we’ll need you to sign. If after the meeting you believe you’re better suited volunteering somewhere else in Radio Laurier, they will redirect you to the relevant manager and get you set up there.
Do I need experience? What skills do I need?
Generally speaking no experience is needed; Laurier doesn’t have a broadcast journalism program, so part of the goal here is that students can learn and practice media production and content creation skills here, regardless of whether you actually intend to go into media in the future. That said, some positions like production assistant require a degree of training for skills like editing; there can be a learning curve for this, and learning audition or audacity can be rewarding, but be aware.
What’s the time commitment?
This will vary from position to position, some take more time, for some the time is scheduled (like calling games or recording shows), whereas some, like editing or processing music submissions can be done on your own time. With that said, the general range is between 1-4hrs per week, between actual activity and meetings, but you’re going to get out of the experience what you put in. The experience is ultimately more fulfilling if you lock in, go above and beyond and your creative skillset while in your position, but hey, I’m not your mom.
Meetings?
Each department within Radio Laurier operates differently, at the manager’s discretion, however, you can expect to have at least a couple meetings and socials throughout the year. If you’re curious, you can ask your manager how they choose to organize their department and go from there.
If interested in hosting my own show, how do I choose what topic to develop my content around?
Our programmers (on-air hosts) are required to come up with content for the week prior to their show, so they are prepared for each broadcast ahead of time. All new shows are required to pitch their show to Radio Laurier’s Program Director. Your content can range from socio-political, social justice, history, feminism, politics, music, and so forth. We recommend your show be well researched and provide a unique perspective for our listeners.
Once your completed application is received, your show proposal is sent to our Program Director for review. If they think the proposal is on air ready, it will be approved for a live to air or pre-recorded show. If it isn’t deemed ready to air, that does not mean the show idea is done, our Program Director will compile comments and suggestions on how to make the proposal complimentary to our programming schedule. The applicant will then re-submit the outline and this process continues until the show is deemed ready to go ahead with. While this process can prove time-consuming, it is crucial in ensuring you’re thoroughly prepared for your first show. Throughout your application, you will meet with our Program Director, Grace, who will orient you with Radio Laurier, the DJ position and the expectations for content and WLUSP policies. Once the outline is approved and the orientation session is completed, the applicant is hired and training begins for production, generation of content, and interview skills.
How do I become a manager?
We prefer to promote from within, so first of all, volunteer with us first. Thereafter, every March the new station manager hires the new management team, which is usually around 6-8 people. These people will lead volunteers and departments over the next year, making sure that we continue to operate smoothly and productively for the next school year. when Management hiring is open, you can find the position descriptions below.
Sound like something you’re interested in getting involved with? Fill out the form below or e-mail stationmanager@radiolaurier.com for more information.
