In the vibrant world of university life, opportunities often arise in the most unexpected ways. Recent graduate Maisie O’Loan (2023), a first-year student at the University of Melbourne, has found herself on an exciting path that blends her love for music with the art of journalism. Through a series of fortuitous events and a passion for discovering the stories behind the music, she has become a notable radio show host and interviewer at her university’s radio station.
Her journey into radio started almost by accident. During O Week, she happened to walk past a booth promoting the university’s radio station. Encouraged by a friend who had previously interned there and driven by her love for music, Maisie decided to inquire further about the station and applied to be a student journalist. However, recognizing her passion and knowledge of music, the radio station offered her a chance to host a show instead.
Maisie began hosting a show where she played jazz music for an hour and discussed its history. Despite her initial nerves, she found her rhythm and became one of the youngest producers at the station. This role allowed her to attend gigs and meet various musicians, fueling her enthusiasm for the industry.
Her curiosity and love for music led her to start interviewing bands, with great results. Her first interview, with a band she admired, was a nerve-wracking yet rewarding experience. “I was so nervous beforehand. I can’t even express how terrified I was,” she recalls. Despite the nerves, the interview was a success for the radio station.
Since then, she has conducted interviews with several bands, each conversation revealing the unique stories and creative processes behind the music. Her approach to interviewing is grounded in thorough background research and genuine curiosity about the artists’ lives and inspirations.
Her academic journey is as diverse as her musical interests. Majoring in Politics and International Studies, she appreciates the flexibility offered by the University of Melbourne to take subjects outside her discipline.
Navigating the world of music journalism as a young producer comes with its challenges such as managing nerves, adapting her sense of humor to different cultural contexts, and finding her footing in a role that involves significant responsibility. Despite these challenges, she continues to thrive, driven by her love for music and storytelling.
Looking ahead, Maisie wants to continue to explore both music and journalism. She remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead, enjoying the journey and the opportunities they bring.