Aaron Glasser

Aaron Glasser is a senior Radio Major at Columbia College Chicago. Aaron can currently be heard on Wednesday's from 3-7P.M. on WCRX 88.1FM. Aaron interned this past year at WRDZ-AM(Radio Disney) in Production and just recently started his second internship at WXRT in Programming. A "big thanks" to Aaron for making this interview happen.

1.When starting at Columbia College, what were some of your goals and aspirations?

I was originally a transfer student from Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY out in Long Island. What really attracted me to Columbia was how "hands on" it was. But what I really wanted to do was find and myself and the Radio Department has allowed me to do so. Now, my aspirations are to find a job where I can make some money!!

2. When did the "radio bug" first hit you?

The radio bug first stung me in High School. I went to a Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) High School. My second year at High School we upgraded our school by adding a whole new wing called the "tech wing." So, the tech wing had science labs, computer labs, art studios, radio department, newsrooms, and a full auto body garage. However, my teacher was traditionally a Theater teacher so we only really learned some conceptual radio terms, practices, and history. The hands on part was missing because he had outdated equipment or grants and had not been passed to honor such equipment. I have heard through friends that has now been fully equipped.

3. Your first internship was at Radio Disney. What attracted you to the
station?

In all honesty, Tom Joyce the Radio Departments Internship Coordinator, actually put in the good word for me and stated it would a good opportunity for me. And, Tom was right. The mouse had employed me Part-Time.

4. You had a unique internship at Disney. You were able to do some production work but most importantly you had the chance to write copy. What class benefited you the most in this endeavor?

I would say Writing for Radio WOULD have been most beneficial however, I took that course Fall 2006 and interned Summer 2006 with Radio Disney. Since I worked along side PK the Cosmic DJ, she taught me how to write copy for the radio. From her, I learned timing techniques and how to get to the point yet, not to forget important details.

5. Currently you are interning at WXRT. How does this internship differ from Disney?

There is a huge difference right off the bat. WXRT is alive and breathing whereas, Radio Disney is syndicated from Dallas, TX. At WXRT I work with the Programming aspect of the Station. So, things we analyze are what other stations are playing in the Chicago Market and what other Triple A formats are playing around the nation. At Radio Disney, in the office, I helped Patty (PK) write copy for kids specials or promotional commercials. And, outside the station, I assisted Patty on her promotional "Party Patrol" events.

6. What do you like best about your internship at WXRT?

I love to speak with all the creative DJs. XRT, in my opinion, is the best station in the Market and it's because the DJs know their stuff. Oh yeah, XRT sponsors the best concerts, too!

7. Professionally, what has been the most valuable lesson you have learned?

You have to know when to speak and when not to speak. Sometimes you don't like what you're told but you gotta be able to roll with the punches.

8. This coming semester you are hosting a radio show at WCRX. Can you give us some insight into the show?

I'm thinking something sort of based on Triple A format however, I'm not limiting myself to Rock music. Music which is from the past, present, and future. Yet, my music choices will be mainly based around underground, progressive, alternative, and indie styles.