Bryon Garrison, Radio/TV student

Radio/TV student Bryon Garrison knows that any student with an interest in reporting the news also needs a solid background in working with the latest digital technologies. The desire to pursue the best possible program that he could find for his career field is what led him from Lebanon, Pa. to the Lehigh Valley, and into NCC's classrooms.

"I heard that they have a radio lab and TV studio here, and that helped influence my decision," says Garrison. "I get a sense of belonging here, as far as the program is concerned, because NCC has the latest technologies and is currently upgrading to HD. That's going to impact the quality of the classes and is a step forward for the college itself."

Garrison is excited to take part in the lab that produces content for WNCC radio, and his interests have led him to become a part-time staff reporter for NCC's student newspaper, The Commuter. Garrison is enjoying learning the fundamentals of communications from professors who want to be sure that students here receive a strong, traditional grounding in the basics of reporting and writing. It was another teacher, after all, that initially spurred his interest in this career field and tickled his nose for news.

"I had a high school teacher, Chris Schwalm, who always asked 'What's Your Story?' and he gave me my passion for finding people and finding out what they have to tell," Garrison explains. "He really showed me the interesting part of making clips and putting the story out there." 

You may spot Garrison around campus, as his nose for news often drives him to write about the latest events and other happenings at NCC. He points out that it helps him hone his interviewing skills and prepare for the future at the same time. He plans on pursuing a four-year degree, and hopes that his future career will find him reporting from a radio DJ or television anchor's chair.

"I've taken a lot of studio tours. I've spoken to a lot of people in the industry," he says. "They love what they do, even if it isn't the highest-paying career. I've already been pushed to excel. Now I just want to be the person who reports the news on the air."