Nicole Michalik, also known as “Nik the Web Chick” on Q102, talked to students about the radio industry and her job as the director of social media at i Heart Media and as a radio personality on Philadelphia’s Q102. Michalik is the face of social media for previously named Clear Channel, recently renamed i Heart Media.
Michalik talked about her experiences during her time working up to where she is now in one of the top five markets for radio. “Internship, internship, internship,” Michalik said to the boardroom in Grace Hall on Thursday Oct. 30, 2014.
As a Drexel graduate, she had never worked on her campus radio station, but had internship after internship to get her name out there in the market. As digital communication is a tough field to get into, Nik gave students some advice on how to shape the future and lead ourselves to success. She mentions that networking and getting your name out there is just one of the few ways to get noticed.
Michalik has met many celebrities throughout working at i Heart Media. She has been to Los Vegas for the i Heart Media festival and has introduced many performers such as Justin Bieber and Trey Songz at Q102’s Jingleball and other concerts. She names these some of the perks of her every day job.
She mentioned the importantce of having as many internships as possible during college.
“You can go into college not knowing what you want to do, so try everything and find your passion,” Michalik said.
Michalik is part of the internship program that i Heart Media holds for college students trying to find their niche in radio. Students are usually put into a certain department and will also often work in other departments as well.
When students go into the interviews for the internship at iHeart Media,students can express interest about what station they want to be at, so that they can have a taste of what the station is like at any point of the day.
Not only did Michalik speak about her perks of being able to go to a bunch of concerts and meet celebrities, she talked about how blessed she was to be where she is today. Working as director of social media and as a radio personality keeps her busy and she still has time to do things she enjoys like going to the gym.
Nicole has been on “The Biggest Loser” and has lost over 100 pounds. She said it was one of the greatest experiences of her life and that she still keeps in touch with some of the people she did the show with.
Whether it is working at the station, meeting celebrities or working out at the gym, Nik the Web Chick is always keeping herself busy and loves every minute of her life. Nicole gave students great advice of creating their futures and making the best out of life.
@BriannaMorrell
