Raheel Ramzanali
Major: Journalism (Broadcast Journalism)
Inspiration:
His parents. "My parents moved to the U.S. from Pakistan when I was five for our education, and they've always done everything they could to make sure that my siblings and I had the best opportunities. Part of the reason that I'm driven to be a success is to show them that I appreciate all they've done for me and that I’m proud of my race and my culture."
Favorite Class:
Sports Communication. "Professor John Fortunato really gave me the context to be able to talk about sports and the business of sports in an intelligent way. I learned about why PR is so important, how contracts are negotiated, and the origins and history of the different leagues. When you're on the radio and you get a call from a listener out of left field, you need this kind of background to be able to respond."
Where UT Meets the Real World:
Student-run stations. "I've been involved with the campus radio station, KVRX-91.7, since I started school. It's a fully operating radio station that is completely run by students. I have my own two-hour morning sports show now, but it was pretty scary at first; I had to learn to use a mixer board and microphone and I had to figure out the phone system, and everything happens at a very quick pace. Once you get the hang of it, though, it's second nature. Working at KVRX has given me completely relevant skills and a comfort level with broadcast technology that I can turn around and use tomorrow in any broadcasting job."
Aspiration:
Host of a national sports radio program. "I love sports and I love radio. I think the future of radio is very bright—with the introduction of satellite and subscription radio, there will be more opportunities, more listeners, and more choices. And what makes radio so appealing to me is that it’s part of the community, people can call in and share their opinions, and as a host you can interact with your listeners."
Favorite Means of Communicating:
Joking. "If I can crack a joke about something, that's my segue into anything. I try to bring a comedic sense to life and to sports, and I think that's a great way to connect with people."
