Durham College's campus radio station provides students with hands-on experience in the communication business, while also amplifying student life.
Part of the reason for Durham College's reputation for providing students with an excellent post-secondary experience is the opportunities for diverse student life experiences. A great example is The Riot campus radio station. The media outlet, known as the students' voice, entertains, educates and updates the campus community and surrounding region.
Established in January 2007, The Riot, formerly known as TheFreQ, broadcasts live from the Marketplace Cafeteria in the Gordon Willey building at the Oshawa campus.
The multi-musical-genre and multicultural station provides an interactive learning environment for students in the Marketing, Advertising, Music Business Management and Journalism programs at Durham College, ensuring they graduate having learned the latest technology used by employers. The Riot actually welcomes any interested volunteer, not just those in related programs of study.
"Many of our DJs are members of the community," said Liam Clifford, assistant station manager. "Some are graduates and others are just folks with a passion for music."
For the past three years Journalism student Bruce Bolton has volunteered at The Riot.
"I really understand the radio side of broadcasting now," he said. "My experience at The Riot has taught me almost everything I know about radio."
As the sports director, Bolton ensures all Durham College home games are broadcast live and interviews outstanding athletes and coaches.
Students also report breaking news, weather conditions, and, of course, air local and well-known musicians. Listeners can tune in to music ranging from heavy metal to classical. The Red Orange Purple Hour, Interstellar Overdrive and DJ Deep's Hip Hop R&B Mix are just a few examples of the diverse programs aired Monday to Friday.
The Riot links together students, businesses and community members and keeps them up-to-date on varisty sports, student social events, career and employment opportunities and health and wellness services. Whether listeners are in the Marketplace Cafeteria, or online, they can be entertained and informed.
"As Durham College continues to provide an exceptional education and phenomenal student life experience, the Riot will serve as a major media outlet for the campus and prepare students for success in the workplace," said Bolton.
To listen live, please visit www.theriotradio.com.