Chris Bleck

Chris Bleck is a senior Radio Major at Columbia College Chicago. He has been a great example of a student who has become involved in all facets of The Radio Department. Besides three internships, Chris has also spent time at WCRX hosting both the regular format in addition to programming, producing and hosting a specialty show. Chris currently works as a student worker in studio time as well as being a Teacher assistant for Radio Studio Operations. Many thanks to Chris for his time.

1.What initially drew you to Columbia College? What initially drew me to Columbia College were all of the opportunities available to the students. I also loved the city atmosphere, living in Chicago; there is always something to do.

2.You've accomplished a lot during your stay at Columbia College. What one course has had the most impact for you in The Radio Department? The one course that has had the most impact on me has been Radio Ethics & Broadcasting. Once I started going to internships, I saw how little people in the business actually know about ethics. I feel the class gets you ready to make decisions in the business world.

3.Speaking of accomplishments, you had experience in covering high school sporting events before Columbia College. Was there a point where you said, "wow this can actually turn into something?" The turning point where I thought this could actually turn into something came when I went to my first internship. I got to see how a small market radio station was run. I thought that if I worked hard enough things would go my way.

4.Currently you are at your third internship site. All of your internships have been in different areas of radio. Can you give a brief summary of each internship and what you learned from an industry standpoint? My first internship was at 95 WIIL rock in Kenosha, WI. It was a great opportunity. I saw first hand how small market radio worked. Its very hands on, there is less money, so less people work there. It allowed me to get experience that I wouldn't get at a large market station. My second internship was at 97.9 the Loop. Also a great experience. I got to do production work for the Loop on Demand. It is the all request evening show. Right now, I'm interning at ESPN Radio 1000. I work on the Mac, Jurko, Harry show. I love every minute of it.

5.I feel you are the embodiment of a student who really "gets it." Can you touch upon networking and never burning bridges? 'Gets it' is common sense. Obviously when you start at the bottom of the food chain you have no reason to have attitude. Getting it, is being nice, respectful, hard worker, and willing to do anything. I treat everyone that I work for with the same attitude. I don't know where I'll get a job so I could work anywhere. I treat everyone like a future employer.

6.With all the skills you have obtained, you certainly haven't pigeonholed yourself. What suggestions would you have for students just beginning their pursuit of an internship? If you're looking for an internship, be willing to work hard. Also be willing to do anything. For the most part, people are looking for interns who work hard and are willing to go get coffee if need be. What I mean by that is hopefully getting coffee isn't all you do but if you have to it won't be a problem.