WIIT, the student-run radio station at Illinois Institute of Technology, offers students a platform to create and host their own shows. Cole Kincart, a fifth-year student in Architectural Engineering, described WIIT as an organization operated by and for students. "When students apply for a show, they can have it be anything that they want. We really allow students to run with it and see what they can do that is unique and maybe push the boundaries a little bit. Might be highlighting kind of international and cultural backgrounds of their guests, might be students highlighting just what they’re into," Kincart said.
One example is "In Theory," hosted by computer science majors Amelia Moseman and Nico Batkoski. During a recent broadcast, Moseman introduced the show: “You’re listening to WIIT 88.9 FM. It’s time for In Theory with me, Amelia.” Batkoski added, “And me, Nico.” The co-hosts discuss topics they consider "in" or "out." Moseman commented during the show: “Routine is out, but structure is in. Because I know if I have too much open time...” Batkoski replied: "Then you go you go crazy.” Moseman responded: “Thank you, Nico! This is why we’re co-hosts.”
Batkoski emphasized the informal atmosphere of the program: "At the end of the day, it’s all about hanging out with our friends and talking with each other and having real, sometimes meaningful, sometimes goofy conversations."
Kincart noted WIIT's connection to its surrounding neighborhoods: "Every semester we can have DJs from Bronzeville and Bridgeport. The rich cultural history of the Southside, whether it’s through kind of highlighting Chicago’s history of house music or hip hop."
Moseman said that diversity among DJs sets WIIT apart: "Yeah, I think WIIT is really unique because it has a super diverse range of DJs."
Tamar Agam, a third-year psychology student who also hosts a show on WIIT, described being on air as distinct from other campus experiences. "It’s a unique experience having a radio show to be live on air. There’s a certain feeling of professionalism that comes with being in the studio," Agam said.
Students involved in WIIT take on various roles essential to keeping the station operational or focus on projects aligned with their interests. Kincart explained: "We have students who can be involved in roles that are essential, making sure that the station is always live or we also have roles where students can play around and do something that they're really passionate about."
Agam highlighted the flexible nature of participation at WIIT: "Only be as involved as you want. So, if you only want to come in once a week to do your show, that’s fine. If you want to just come to events, that’s fine. It’s really for everyone."