I had fears about a program intended for college kids. While – sure – I am in college, I’m older than most other students. After dropping out of high school over ten years ago, I have felt like I needed to figure everything out on my own. To some degree, I’ve been successful at that, but my all-on-my-own mindset is limiting. I’ve found it difficult to allow myself to be a true beginner at something, to build on knowledge iteratively rather than acting like I know everything all at once.
The Next Generation Radio program has created a safe place for me to approach this form of storytelling as a true beginner. To learn, step-by-step,what it takes to tell a great audio story. From the narrative structure, all the way down into the adjustment of fades and natural sound, I feel prepared to continue in the audio storytelling field. It’s not just about the radio package, but all of the pieces it takes to tell a great story. I believe my mentor, Claire Caulfield, was the perfect mentor for me. She has been so present, patient and comprehensive in teaching, and most of all, incredibly detail-oriented. From tips on tighter sound to AP and journalistic edits, I have learned so much from her. I have felt so supported during this week. I am unclear on what the future holds for me, but my time spent with NextGenRadio this week has shown me where I would like to go.