Date of Defense

4-24-2026

Date of Graduation

5-2026

Department

Finance and Commercial Law

First Advisor

Glen Dillon

Second Advisor

Sarah Misiak

Abstract

This honors thesis explores the full development of my role as a student radio personality at 89.1 WIDR FM, documenting each stage of the process, from the earliest introductory meetings and technical training to the experience of shadowing established shows and launching my own on-air program. The project serves not only as a record of my personal progression through WIDR's broadcasting environment but also as an analysis of the learning curve required to transform from a complete novice into a confident, consistent radio host.

A significant component of this work is my perspective as someone entering the radio space with no background in digital or audio technology and limited formal musical knowledge. Because of this, the thesis emphasizes the challenges, surprises, and skill-building moments that arise when stepping into a highly technical creative field from the ground up. By documenting these experiences in detail, the project offers a transparent, student-centered guide that demystifies the process and potentially encourages other students, regardless of their experience level, to pursue their own shows at WIDR.

In addition to chronicling my experiential learning, the thesis includes ongoing discussions and feedback sessions with my faculty chair, Glen Dillon, Western Michigan University's Assistant Director of Student Media, and with veteran WIDR staff members involved in the training process. These conversations offer insight into how WIDR develops student broadcasters, how training materials and mentorship shape new hosts, and how institutional knowledge is passed down from one generation of DJs to the next.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

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