Emily Pennington

Emily Pennington is a senior radio major at Columbia College Chicago. Last fall she completed her first internship at WKSC-FM. Staying in the Clear Channel family, she was offered an internship in National Sales at Clear Channel for the spring 2008 semester. This is Emily's story thus far:


1.It's always intriguing to find out how a student became interested in radio. Before attending Columbia, did you have a sense of what interested you in the field?

Originally, when I entered Columbia I was a Journalism Major. I went through a semester studying different styles of writing, but I noticed my interest was fading away. That same semester I had a public speaking course in the 33 E. Congress building. Each day I walked past the WCRX studio and it intrigued me. It seemed like the students were having so much fun that I decided to take a class in radio. It was the best decision that I ever made!


2.Originally you came in as a student who had an interest in Talent/Production. When did the business side start to grab your attention?

I still like doing on air work and production but it's not something that I want to focus on anymore. I like the business side of radio because it’s stable. Many people may think that it’s boring, but it's definitely not!!!  It's a very high paced business that can lead to many opportunities.  What I've learned in the sales industry, I will be able to apply that knowledge to other areas in my life.


3.While at your first internship, you also had a show at the school station, WCRX 88.1 FM. How would you describe your first semester On-Air?

My first semester on-air was hectic. Luckily, over the summer I did a show every week to prepare myself for the fall semester. I had to make sure that I was on top of current events and had topics to discuss that would interest the listeners. I had some of my best times at WCRX.


4.Your first internship was at WKSC 103.5 FM. What expectations did you have?

Honestly, I didn't know what to expect. I was nervous because I just wanted the people to like me. Our biggest responsibility was to be there for the listeners and make sure that their needs were met.


5. WKSC-FM seems to be a fun place at which to intern or work. Can you give us a bird's eye view of the first live event with which you assisted?

My first live event was with radio personality Nina Chantele at Orland Square Mall. Ashley Tisdale was performing. It was a lot of fun but it was non-stop work. The equipment had to be set up properly, prizes had to be distributed to the right people, signage had to be put up for advertisement, and pics needed to be taken to be sent back to the client.


6. Currently you are interning with the National Sales Department.  What are some of your duties?

It is my responsibility to prepare one sheets for the clients, create web shots as well as air checks, and make sure that spots will air at the proper time. I also confirm orders and make sure that the money transactions are accurate. In addition, I assist with planning promotional events.


7. What would you say has been your most exciting accomplishment at Columbia?

My most exciting accomplishment at Columbia is probably the networking that I've done. I've met some amazing people that have served as great mentors to me.

 
8. You will be graduating In May. What are your plans for the future?

After graduation I plan to stay at Clear Channel and continue to grow and develop skills in the national sales department. I'm confident that this will lead to me becoming the National Sales Assistant for Clear Channel Radio in the Chicago market.