Alumni Advice

Hear from Lyndon State graduates like Mike Lichniak on job hunting tips and Ian Oliver on making a great start in a new market. Real perspectives from those who have been where you are now.

Appearance & Professionalism

Making the jump from college to local television means understanding how appearance, wardrobe, and on-camera demeanor affect your credibility with viewers and news directors alike.

Social Media Branding

Your online presence matters. Learn about personal branding, social media rights, and how to build a professional identity that complements your on-air work — insights shared at the NWA Social Media Boot Camp.

Building a standout resume tape is one of the most critical steps for any entry-level broadcast meteorologist. News directors often spend only seconds reviewing a demo reel before forming an impression, so every moment counts. The best tapes balance clear communication with genuine personality, weaving together accurate forecasts, smooth pacing, and compelling weather storytelling. Graphics should support the message without overwhelming it, and on-air presence needs to feel natural rather than rehearsed. Investing time in crafting a polished tape can make the difference between landing an interview and being passed over in a competitive job market.

On-air feedback is an invaluable resource for college students and recent graduates entering broadcast meteorology. Having an experienced professional review your weathercasts offers perspective that self-critique simply cannot provide. Subtle habits like filler words, rushed pacing, or awkward gesturing often go unnoticed until someone points them out. Constructive critique helps young meteorologists refine their delivery, improve their use of graphics, and develop a more confident presence in front of the camera. Seeking honest feedback early and often builds the foundation for steady improvement throughout a broadcasting career.

The transition from college meteorology programs to a first television job can feel overwhelming. Classroom knowledge of atmospheric science is essential, but success on air demands additional skills that are rarely taught in lectures. Learning to communicate complex weather information in simple, relatable terms takes practice and patience. New broadcasters must also become comfortable with the technical demands of a studio, from chroma-key walls to live timing cues. Embracing this learning curve with humility and determination helps entry-level meteorologists grow into the professionals that local stations are eager to hire.

Social media has become an extension of the broadcast meteorologist's role, offering a platform to share forecasts, engage with viewers, and build a personal brand. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter allow meteorologists to post updates between shows, share severe weather alerts, and even showcase behind-the-scenes moments that humanize the on-air personality. News directors increasingly look for candidates who understand digital storytelling and can connect with audiences beyond the television screen. Developing a consistent, professional social media presence while still in college can give aspiring broadcasters a meaningful edge in the job search.

Summer internships and part-time opportunities provide hands-on experience that classroom learning alone cannot replicate. Working inside a real television station exposes students to the daily rhythms of a newsroom, the pressure of live broadcasting, and the collaborative nature of producing a weather segment. Even tasks like assisting with graphics or shadowing an experienced meteorologist can yield lessons that shape a future career. Students who seek out these opportunities demonstrate initiative and a genuine passion for the field, qualities that resonate strongly with news directors when it comes time to fill entry-level positions.

Understanding what news directors value in a candidate can help aspiring broadcast meteorologists tailor their approach. Beyond a solid understanding of meteorology, stations look for charisma, authenticity, and the ability to connect with a local audience. A well-organized resume tape, a professional online portfolio, and a genuine enthusiasm for community storytelling all leave lasting impressions. Entry-level applicants who take the time to research a station's market, audience, and weather challenges show a level of preparation that sets them apart from others simply sending out generic applications.

Continuing education and skill development remain important long after landing that first on-air job. The broadcast industry evolves constantly, with new graphics software, digital platforms, and storytelling techniques emerging every season. Meteorologists who dedicate time to learning tools like WSI graphics systems, video editing programs, or even website management with WordPress become more versatile and valuable to their stations. Attending conferences, participating in workshops, and staying curious about the changing media landscape all contribute to sustained growth and career longevity in television weather.

The local television market offers a unique opportunity to become a trusted voice in a community. Viewers invite broadcast meteorologists into their homes each morning and evening, relying on them for information that affects daily decisions and personal safety. Building that trust requires consistency, accuracy, and an approachable on-air demeanor. Entry-level meteorologists who embrace the responsibility of serving a local audience with sincerity often find deep professional satisfaction. The connection between a weathercaster and a community is one of the most rewarding aspects of a career in broadcast meteorology.

Preparing for the job market means more than simply sending out tapes and waiting for calls. Aspiring broadcast meteorologists benefit from networking with peers and professionals, seeking mentorship, and staying informed about job openings through resources dedicated to the television industry. The path from college to a first contract can take unexpected turns, and flexibility about market size or geographic location often opens doors that might otherwise remain closed. Patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from every experience help turn a passion for weather into a lasting and fulfilling on-air career.

Severe Weather Coverage

When a tornado touched down in Elmira, New York, in July 2012, WENY meteorologist John Hickey put his training to work. Learn from his experience covering a first severe-weather outbreak.