New students search radio dial for right sound, style

As students adjust and settle into college life, the radio may become a source of relaxation and a way to stay informed of current events.

However, some out-of-state students said it is difficult to find a radio station that is well suited to their taste and interests.

Greg Dairyko, an LSA sophomore from Chicago, said he had his alarm set to a country station his entire first semester because he was unaware of the variety of radio stations available on campus.

Paul Friedmen, a University alumnus and DJ for the student station WCBN 88.3 FM, said the station tries to attract as many listeners as possible.

"WCBN targets the intelligent listener with an open mind and those that are looking for a smaller station."

WCBN is a good choice for those students who enjoy listening to a variety of music styles, he said.

The station's musical genre includes jazz, reggae, gospel, country, techno, rock, rap, Spanish and Latin American music and movie soundtracks.

WCBN, which is run by both students and alumni, also has special programming on the weekends and a 30-minute news segment beginning at 5:30 p.m. every day.

The daily schedule of the station varies from jazz to rock-'n-roll. From 9 a.m. to noon, jazz fans tune in. From 6:30 to 8 p.m., WCBN plays only reggae. After 8 p.m., the station plays a variety of music.

For those students who are more interested in keeping up with the local and national news, the campus station WUOM 91.7 FM offers less music and more information.

Harriet Teller, WUOM programming director, said the station targets an audience that is interested in detailed news coverage.

"The students to attract are those interested in public and current affairs, national and world news, local and state coverage and environmental issues," Teller said.

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters named WUOM 1997 Public Station of the Year.

The staff at WUOM consists of student interns and a professional staff of non-students. Volunteer opportunities are also available for students who are interested.

After 8 p.m., WUOM plays only classical music. The station provides special programming throughout every weekend.

An Ann Arbor station that may be appealing to those alternative music listeners is WIQB 103 FM, said a spokesperson from the station.

WIQB targets adults between the ages of18 and 35. The station also tries to attract student listeners by doing remote shows at University functions.

Besides these local stations, the Ann Arbor radio dial also offers Detroit-based stations.

09-15-97