Eight 2011 Radio Graduates Hired by Merlin Media LLC in Chicago

2011 Radio graduates Megan Buckley, Michael Cronin, Danielle Ezell, Christine Fiedler, John Gregory, Calie Lyons, Chris Mezyk, and Eric Pribramsky were all hired as full-time news writers/producers for Merlin Media LLC as heard on WWWN, 101.1 FM in Chicago.

Merlin Media LLC was formed in June of 2011 to acquire and operate media through a partnership between Chicago-based private equity firm GTCR and Emmis Communications, a diversified media company.

Many of the students hired shared numerous classes, worked together at WCRX, 88.1 FM, and all successfully completed internships at radio stations in Chicago. For many of the new hires, the opportunity to work in the 3rd largest market in the United States just shortly after graduation further solidifies the Radio Department's standing as the premier college to study radio broadcasting.

Calie Lyons, had this to say about her new position, "I am excited to get my first full-time gig in radio. This was a pleasant surprise but truthfully, over the last 4 years, Columbia has prepared me for this position."

According to Chris Mezyk, "I always felt that my instructors gave me honest critiques of my work. They never sugar-coated anything. That honesty along with my hard work, gave me the confidence to believe that I can work in this industry."