My Journey to Becoming a Podcast Educator
Introduction:
Yerr! Here’s a short blog post where I wanted to share my journey from a fellow to an educator in the world of podcasting. I graduated from Stony Brook University as an Applied Math and Economics double major in 2018, but I knew that wasn’t the direction I wanted to go in for my career. This is a story about embracing something out of the norm, especially for a South Asian like myself.
The Fellowship Start:
As a senior undergraduate, I began Unmapped, a podcast where I interviewed my peers to discuss their endeavors and goals as individuals. I quickly fell in love with the process, cranking out almost 30 interviews by the time the year was coming to a close. Luckily, as I was taking this path, I came across the Stony Brook Audio Podcast Fellowship. I joined this program in fall 2018. As a newcomer, I was immersed in an environment ripe with learning opportunities, surrounded by a diverse and experienced faculty.
Transitioning to a TA:
The real game-changer was stepping into the role of a Teaching Assistant (TA). While this was an unpaid position, it was rich in experience. Here, I wasn’t just a student; I was a part of the teaching process, learning the ropes of academic and practical podcast education.
The Faculty Influence:
One of the highlights of this journey was the opportunity to work alongside and learn from accomplished professionals. Among them was Kathleen Russo, the executive producer of "Here's The Thing" with Alec Baldwin. Her expertise in producing high-quality, engaging content was a beacon of guidance. Russo's work, including her role in podcasts like "You and Me Both" with Hillary Clinton, exemplifies the blend of creativity and professionalism essential in the podcasting world.
From TA to Teacher:
My evolution continued as I transitioned from a TA to an adjunct and eventually began teaching an undergraduate course in 2019. This progression was not just about climbing the academic ladder; it was a journey of personal and professional growth, fueled by real-world insights and experiences.
The Value of Unpaid Positions:
Unpaid roles are often undervalued, but my experience is a testament to their worth. These positions offered me a unique perspective, allowing me to quickly gain industry expertise in a manner that traditional education paths might not have provided. It's about the richness of the experience, the networking opportunities, and the practical skills gained.
Conclusion:
In summary, my path from a fellow to an educator at Stony Brook University has been an enlightening one. It underscores the importance of seizing opportunities, irrespective of their monetary value, and the incredible learning that can occur in the process. This journey has shaped me into not just a better educator but also a more seasoned professional in the podcasting arena.
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This blog post reflects on the value of embracing unpaid roles and the unique learning opportunities they provide, especially in dynamic fields like podcasting. The experiences and influences from accomplished professionals like Kathleen Russo enrich such journeys, offering insights and expertise that go beyond traditional academic learning.
