Dawn Avello, a former ICB instructor and currently a Q-ROCK afternoon host, emphasized during her guest lecture that the notion that “there aren’t any jobs is just not true.” As Dawn suggested, you have to be flexible and be willing to do whatever job might be available…so if that requires being a reporter, (even though you might want to be a “jock”) then that’s what you do. Dawn noted that you have to be a “bit ballsy” or someone willing to take some risks when it comes to work. Also, the broadcast community is a relatively small world in that everyone knows everyone and to upset or disappoint a boss that think there will be no consequences is unrealistic. It works also to your advantage, so your competitors sometimes become your friends and offer you a job because they’ve noticed your performance.

Dawn has worked with a lot of people who have graduated from an ICB school and she knows that the institution does a great job of preparing people for the business. Dawn strongly suggested that the students get an internship and network, network, network and leave a favorable impression. Dawn talked about using social media to promote network opportunities as well as keeping up with what’s going on in the industry. She talked about the ALL ACCESS website that is specifically designed for people in the media business and continues to use the site (after 15 years in the business) to learn about available opportunities in the business.

Dawn advised the students to “don’t be shy,” when it comes to being on a microphone and to use the studio facilities to make a number of demo reels featuring various music and format styles. By being prepared with materials that can help you access any format or program director, you are actually helping to insure yourself of a job in the industry.

ICB students each week of their curriculum get a chance to meet professionals like Dawn Avello. If you want to see more guest speakers or you want to start your own career in broadcasting, contact us or call 630-916-1700.