Shippensburg University alumna Emma Halsey’23 shared her experience working at WITF, a public media organization in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. As an audio producer, sound engineer, radio host and event staff member, Halsey wears many different hats.

“When I was first trying to figure out what I wanted to do for my career, I knew I wanted something that had to do with communications since I LOVE to talk,” said Halsey. Initially pursuing public relations in the Communication/Journalism Department, she eventually found her passion in radio and broadcast production. “By my junior year of college, I had switched my concentration to visual media!”

Halsey’s work at WITF allows her to utilize both her technical skills and creativity. “As an audio producer, I will edit the audio for our local show ‘The Spark’ as well as engineer it when it is live, which essentially means making sure everyone sounds good and making sure the show keeps on moving,” she explained. 

Also, Halsey edits podcast versions of the show, prepares promos and steps in as a fill-in host for ‘Morning Edition’ and ‘All Things Considered’. “Getting out information to Central Pennsylvania is so important,” she said, highlighting her commitment to the region.

This past week, Halsey attended The Farm Show to record audio for ‘The Spark’. Another major community event that Halsey has been a part of includes The Lancaster County Community Foundation, where she recorded audio of attendees sharing what they love about Lancaster and what they want to see improve. 

Looking back on her time as a Ship student, Halsey credited her educational experience as a huge part of her success. “Everything I learned at Ship I have applied to my roles at WITF, especially with my role as general manager of WSYC, the campus radio station,” she said. “Getting involved outside the classroom prepared me for more than I could have ever imagined.”

 Halsey also mentioned that Ship led her to her current role. “Our former faculty advisor for Ship’s radio station (shoutout WSYC) Dr. Ted Carlin reached out to me and said that WITF was looking for more female voices and that he felt I would be a great fit.” She then applied for a part-time position and was offered a job.

Halsey takes a lot of pride in the work she does at WITF. One recent project that she is especially proud of is the Creator Academy, a program that gives college students hands-on experience in audio production.

For current Ship students who are interested in audio production or broadcasting, Halsey urges them to get involved.  “Those student media groups are there for a reason. They will get you those internships and jobs outside of school!”

She also highlighted the importance of building relationships with professors. “They are not only your professors, but they are future professional connections, reference letters and even Facebook friends. Don’t take those connections for granted!”

Halsey’s passion for her work in audio production and broadcasting reflects the value that education and hands-on experience can have. From the skills gained while at Ship and the work that she does at WITF, she is able to put her all toward every project she works on. 

“I love that I get to dip my toes into everything at WITF,” she said. “Every day is different, and that’s what keeps it exciting.”

For those interested in broadcasting, check out Ship’s Communication, Journalism and Media programs, and the various organizations on campus – such as WSYC 88.7, SUTV News and other clubs and organizations on Ship Link.