My time with WRGW District Radio has been one of the most fulfilling experiences at George Washington University. After interning my freshman year and being interrupted by the covid-semester, I was finally able to host my own show the fall of my junior year.
I remember coming up with the concept of “The Soundtrack of My Life” (SOML) immediately. Each week, I wanted to invite a student guest on to share a playlist of songs that they would call “the soundtrack of my life.” On air, I would prompt them to share why these songs are meaningful to them, and what people, moments or feelings they may be associated with. In a school that can easily feel too big at times, I thought this would be a great way to make new friends, connect with people in an authentic way (around music) and build a small community – a.k.a, the SOML family.
When reflecting on the guests we’ve hosted and the stories that have been told, I think what makes my time at WRGW the most special is the incredible people I’ve gotten to experience it all with.
I remember when my dear friend, Katie Petrillo, expressed interest in radio; I told her to apply and request to be on my show. When the list came out, her name was there, but also Nick Penders’. I was so excited to make a new friend, and the three of us would create so many memories together in and out of the station.
Each week, I truly looked forward to us catching up, sharing our life updates, talking about new music and my favorite – taking lots of silly pictures and videos to get that quality Instagram content. I was always so excited to see them and work together to create a show that was meaningful to us, our guests and our listeners.
This past fall, Katie and I both studied abroad, and Nick continued the show while we were gone. In doing so, he welcomed another close friend, Tyler Richardson, as an intern, and this semester he has been a wonderful addition to the show as our fourth co-host.
While I’m sad to leave WRGW, I am so excited for the show to live on and for our SOML family to continue to grow.
To all of the new and old friends that came on air – thank you for being such lovely guests, and being so open and thoughtful with the stories that you told. You guys were truly the reason we were able to do this every week!!!
To all of our listeners – thank you so much for tuning in; it meant so much to me when anyone would share that they listened in and enjoyed the show. Also, a major shout out to my family, specifically my mom, dad, grandma and grandpa for being our number one fans!!
Lastly, I am so grateful for Katie, Nick and Tyler for being so wonderful, and for creating such a positive and relaxing space for me each week. I love you guys, and I can’t wait to keep tuning in, hearing new music, listening for bits and catching the local weather report 🙂
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