While growing up, ‘sports’ for senior Isaac Constans meant asking his dad, “What do you think the chances are of me becoming a professional basketball player?" Constans has always loved basketball, however, when he came to MSU, he put his talent for writing and love of sports into the other side of sports production.
Constans is a journalism senior and as an engineer and cohost of WKAR’s Current Sports with Al Martin, he prepares show layouts, edits audio and discusses all things sports on the segment.
Constans is enjoying his opportunity to have a speaking role on a sports radio show as an intern. Knowing his radio audience is something that Constans has picked up on quickly, referring to the fact that you have to be careful of crossing the line on radio talk shows. He has learned to back up his arguments and developed thicker skin because of the experience.
“I actually really enjoy giving my opinion on the show,” Constans said. “You really are free to express yourself. One of my favorite aspects of print journalism is the column side; anything to do with community messages is important to me.”
He first learned about the opportunity at WKAR Public Media from Michigan State University through one of his journalism professors and worked his way into roles with more responsibility. The School of Journalism and Constans’ professors have helped him achieve his goals, make connections and prepare for a career after internships.
One thing Constans wasn’t expecting to learn is the strategic process that goes into making each radio show possible. Through his internship, he is involved with the research required to have a well-rounded discussion that will connect with their audience.
“I had to learn to find a way to organize the material for discussion,” Constans said. “There is a lot that goes into it behind the scenes and I had no idea journalism could be so multifaceted.”
Constans originally wanted to gain print experience and said he found himself loving the radio side of journalism at WKAR. He can put his writing, personality and verbal communication skills into the success of the show.
Trying everything and getting involved with things you are passionate about is Constans’ advice to younger journalism students.
“Make sure you are available when any opportunity arises; you will learn so much,” Constans said. “Getting honest feedback and knowing the common triumphs and struggles of your organization is key.”
Through his internship at WKAR, Constans learned that he wanted to pursue a career in radio sports journalism.
“WKAR opened up a whole new avenue of sports journalism for me,” Constans said. “I can express myself, my personality and my presence through radio. I had never really thought about that option before, but I realized how important this skill is in the realm of communication.”
By Meg Dedyne
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