Katie Baker
Katie Baker is a senior radio major at Columbia College Chicago. Like
many students, she came to Columbia with an interest in an entirely
different field. After taking a few courses she decided that radio is
where her main interests lie. She has the distinction of being the
first radio major to intern with Harpo Radio, Inc. Recently, we had an
opportunity to sit down and discuss her time at Columbia College
Chicago.1. Where and when did you first hear about Columbia College?
I had a friend living in Chicago who told me about this great college in the city. He knew I wasn't really thrilled with the university I was attending at the time. I looked at the website and the radio classes seemed very interesting. Once I visited campus, I fell in love.
2. What made you decide that radio had to be a part of your future?
Growing up, I was involved in some theatre back in Michigan. I had a lot of fun, but it didn't seem to click for me. Radio seemed like a great way to use my voice and be creative in an environment that's always changing.
3. Before your internship with Harpo, you had an internship at a voiceover agency. Did that experience give you a better idea of the industry?
Definitely. I never realized how challenging being a voice over talent really is. Not only do you have to be articulate, you have to take direction really well. You have to know your own voice and be flexible with changing it.
4. When you first heard about the opportunity at Harpo, what thoughts went through your head?
Honestly, I thought they'd never pick me. I didn't think I had enough production experience. I was afraid to want it because I knew what an awesome opportunity it was, and I didn't want to get let down.
5. The competition was quite stiff for the production internship with Harpo. What did you feel might have separated you from the pack?
After talking to everyone at my internship, the one thing they remembered about me was my smile. I went in with a positive attitude, and made it clear that I was ready to learn. I feel like I also had some added confidence because I knew the radio department had my back.
6. The internship is one of the best in the business. Not only is it hands on, but it also gives you the opportunity to intern with a relatively new format, satellite radio. What did you know about satellite radio going into the internship, and how has your opinion changed?
When I first heard about satellite radio, I thought it was a fantastic idea. I only knew the very basic information, such as limited commercials and more variety with music genres. Now that I've been at the station for a while, I feel more passionate about it. I could definitely see myself working for a satellite station someday.
7. Can you give us a bird’s eye view of a day in the life of a production intern at Harpo Radio?
They give so many responsibilities to the interns. I work closely with my supervisor Rita Whack, who is the producer for Marianne Williamson, Peter Walsh, and Dr. Maya Angelou. I help her brainstorm and research show ideas, screen and book callers that are needed, and edit segments to get ready for air. Rita has a been a wonderful mentor, who always wants to give me an opportunity to learn something new. I help the production assistants by loading their carts for air. I write pluggers that go directly onto their website. I'm there to help the entire staff with whatever they need.
8. This semester you are doing the production practicum at WCRX. How has the position improved your overall production skills?
I feel like my production skills have improved so much. My editing skills really have sharpened. My perception of levels have gotten better. I've also figured out how to work at a pretty quick pace, without sacrificing the quality of my work. Tony Kwiecinski, the PD, has been great teaching me about mixing and the placement of SFX. I'm having a lot of fun! It's definitely played a role in confirming that this is what I want to do.
9. The spring semester will be your last semester at Columbia. What goals do you want to accomplish before leaving?
I feel like I've accomplished so much in the time I've been here. Moving to Chicago, and coming to Columbia College is hands down one of the best decisions I've made. I just want to make sure that I keep having fun.