Department spotlight: Orchard Radio

Located in TI 233, the Orchard Radio lounge gives students a chance to learn how to be a radio DJ. Sarah Faraj | Washtenaw Voice

Danny Villalobos
Staff Writer

Students at Washtenaw Community College have the opportunity to become a radio DJ on campus. Orchard Radio, the 24/7 online radio station, provides students with the equipment and training for students to host their own radio show. Any currently registered student can be trained easily, no prior radio experience necessary.

Orchard Radio features hit music, news, sports news, entertainment news and the various planned school events.

“We provide a little bit of everything,” said Dena Blair, the lead faculty for the Broadcast Arts program at the WCC.

Training to become a DJ won’t take too much time either, according to Blair.

The radio station airs 24/7 and song requests can be made by calling 734-477-8922. Sarah Faraj | Washtenaw Voice

“Training typically takes around thirty to forty minutes; and in that time students will have a grasp and be able to run an hour-long show,” Blair said.

Despite the show only lasting an hour, DJing is more than an easy sit-down job.

“It seems like a short amount of time, but when you’re working it feels like a very long time,” said Blair. “Not only do you have to make sure that the music is playing and the levels are correct, but you have to take your breaks and constantly think two-steps ahead.”

Orchard Radio has no commercials and is free for anyone with an internet connection.

Students interesting in DJing can contact Orchard Radio through email, or go on their website, Orchard Radio, to send a message and get a meeting and training set up right away.

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