Interview with Mona Dehghan - talking about her time as an MA Radio student at Goldsmiths, University of London. Mona is currently (May 2007) working as Operations Manager, Program Director and DJ at KALX 90.7 FM

 

Why did you apply for the MA Radio course?

When I was an undergrad student, I volunteered at my campus radio station. I enjoyed my time there so much that I decided to pursue a career in radio.

What was your background before you came to the course?

I was an English Literature major at UC Berkeley. On the side, I was the Music Director for my college radio station, and I was a freelance music journalist and DJ.

How did you find the course?

I'm not sure how you mean this question: if you mean how did I literally find the course...I did a search on the internet and found Goldsmiths to be the most interesting and comprehensive of all the radio courses I found.

If you mean how did I like the course...I thought the programme was fantastic because it was so hands-on. It was completely different than all my previous education, because everything I learned was actually applicable to my career.

What was it like living in London?

Living in London was one of the greatest experiences of my life thus far. It was a bit hard at first not knowing anyone in such a big city, but there is so much to offer around every corner that it was impossible to be bored or lonely. No matter what you're into... London has a myriad of options for you to explore.

How has the course been useful in your media career?

I think my degree from Goldsmiths was crucial to every job offer I received since the day I started class. I was told by every station that hired me in London (BBC London, Virgin Radio, BBC 6 Music, Radio Wimbledon) that they noticed my application because of the great reputation that the Goldsmiths radio course has held over the years. Even today, I still use all the training and techniques I learned in my course when I train all of my radio staff at KALX.

There seems to be a lot of work to do on the course. Is it possible to do part-time work or have a life outside of Goldsmiths while you're there?

Absolutely! I didn't get much sleep sometimes, but I always had time for gigs, traveling, hanging out with friends, all while I had at least one part time job. Also, the course work was so interesting and applicable to my career that it didn't feel like real 'course work.' It was more just like learning how to do what I love, and do it better.

What makes the course different from any other concentrating on radio?

Most universities only offered broadcast journalism, but I really liked that Goldsmiths also offered extensive training in radio culture/history, drama, and general production as well.

What were the other students like?

Every one in the class was so completely different from each other which made the course extremely interesting. It was really cool to work with people from so many different backgrounds both culturally and socially... I got turned on to a ton of new ideas, and made some great friends along the way too.

Would you recommend it to anybody else?

I don't recommend much to people, but I wholeheartedly recommend this programme for anyone interested in radio.

 

Listen to Mona Dehghan - Reporting John Peel's Funeral (MP3 audio)