Jam Out with WBIM
Lights! Camera! … Audio? Bridgewater State University’s radio station, WBIM 91.5 FM, is completely student-run and focused on “sharing a general love for music and communication,” as said by the station’s Program Director, Aaron Derouen (he/him).
With such a great goal it’s no surprise that WBIM has grown greatly since its creation, but even with this growth, the passion remains the same.
WBIM is all about students and forming connections through shared music and interests. The organization provides the tools for students and the students themselves decide what they want to do, whether that is sports, a talk show, music, or something else! There is a lot of flexibility when planning shows, so students are always encouraged to be creative. Anything is on the table as long as it doesn’t violate FCC guidelines.
But how does one go about getting a show? To do this, it’s rather simple. All you need is an idea, eight hours of going to another DJ’s show, and lastly, a DJ test. All of this is surprisingly easy, and with it completed, you’re good to go.
In addition to creativity, there are other things that make WBIM an amazing organization. Not only is the environment laid-back, but it is also a great escape. Classes can get tough sometimes, so why not get lost in the music? Not only that, but WBIM is a great way to meet like-minded people and bond over shared music. I don’t know about you all, but I get ecstatic when I meet someone who shares my music taste, and I love discussing artists.
WBIM goes beyond just student shows though. In addition, alumni are often invited to shows and even sometimes do weekend shows. They also run CD and vinyl sales that give students a chance to add to their music collection and lend out their podcasting equipment to students who want to use it.
While it may be late in the semester, I highly recommend tuning into WBIM 91.5 FM to see what’s in store!
