In college, you're encouraged to dive into every opportunity that presents itself, big and small, long and short term; all in the hopes of having the most experience possible when you graduate. But in the rare instances that opportunities don’t pop up on or off campus, you have the chance to make one happen in the form of a podcast.

With a podcast, you have the freedom of having your own mini radio show at little to no cost. You may have to pay for audio software to better enhance your sound quality and play with a few ambient sounds to create a specific atmosphere; but beyond that, you have the freedom of a radio host to express how you feel, on whatever you feel, with whoever you feel like talking to on your podcast, so long as it's something everyone can get behind and listen to to help get them through the day. Like, suggesting new vegan and vegetarian menu options in the cafeteria menu for people who don't eat red meat. Or, talking about

technical things around the college that either need to be renovated, or replaced completely so as not to disrupt the learning environment of the students and staff.

But why stop there? You can even expand your list of podcast topics to things outside of college. Like leaving home and getting your first apartment, tips on how to save money upon graduating, or great hangout spots to check out and make your weekends safe and eventful. Having a podcast is a great way to enhance your oral communication skills if you want to talk about something you're passionate about and want to share with others. If public speaking isn't your forte and you’re prone to stage fright, then a podcast is a great alternative to this. In a like manner, having a podcast is also a great way to branch out into voice acting as a potential career.

Whether you're experimenting with character voices, reading chapters out of books, or just practicing lines from well known commercials, establishing a body of work with a podcast is a great jumping off point. Similarly, going back to the idea of a radio show, if you're looking to one day have a career hosting one someday, but go to a college that lacks the proper studio for it, then creating a podcast gives you the freedom to pursue you goals on your own terms. To do so, you'll need to invest in a good microphone and pop filter to record with, a Sound Cloud account to upload your finished work to, royalty free music to have an intro and outro, and audio software to edit and enhance your sound. But beyond that, you'll have the power to make your dream a reality so long as your have the resources and equipment to do it.

All in all, having a podcast is another great way to branch out into a world of potential career choices and even building a following of people who enjoy both you and your work. On top of polishing your oral communication skills, you can also have the freedom to express yourself however you so desire to your hearts content.

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