Alumni Profiles
Carrie Muehling Vogel
Hometown: Normal, IL
Graduation Information
Bachelors: 2001, Agricultural Communications and Education
Work Information
Company: WJBC Radio/Radio Bloomington
Years Worked: 3
How did you obtain your job?
After working three and a half years for WMBD Radio in Peoria, I spent a semester as a visiting professor in the ag communications program at the University of Illinois, and then accepted the position at WJBC. They actually contacted me because I had experience in farm broadcasting and was local.
What do you enjoy most about your position?
I love feeling like I make a difference by keeping farmers informed and helping the general public to understand why agriculture matters to them. It's very rewarding to help others tell their stories. I also like the fact that the information business is always changing, so no two days are the same.
What advice can you provide current students seeking a career in this field?
Start seeking internships and work experience as soon as you can. I had a radio internship every summer during college, and that gave me a variety of experiences, as well as a good network of contacts that has served me well. My first radio job came out of my last internship, and I think that is common.
Achievements
National Association of Farm Broadcasting Regional Horizon Award, 2003 Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program, Class of 2008
College of ACES
What was your favorite memory as a student in the College of ACES?
Favorite memories would have to be student trips... it seems like there are always opportunities through student clubs or classes to travel, whether it be a day trip or something longer to a faraway place. There was always something to learn, and the time to get to know other students outside of the classroom was the real benefit.
What was your favorite ACES class and why?
I think I would have to say AGCM 240 - Bob Siebrecht's photography class. Even though I'm not real artsy, and photography is not necessarily my strength, it was a really fun class and it stretched me.
How do you feel the College of ACES prepared you for your future?
I think the networking that occurs within the college is so valuable. The classes and experiences were helpful, but it's the people you meet who become your contacts and colleagues after graduation that really make the College of ACES such an asset.
What advice would you give current students while a student in the College of ACES?
Get involved! You can't do it all, but pick a few organizations and be active. You'll have some great experiences and the people you meet will continue to resurface as you go through life.
University of Illinois
Why did you choose to come to the University of Illinois and College of ACES?
My family has a long-standing tradition of attending the University of Illinois. I often say my blood ran orange and blue long before I ever reached campus. The College of ACES was an easy fit as I had an interest in agriculture and the agricultural communications program was exactly what I was looking for as I pursued a career in agriculutural broadcasting.
What is your favorite memory on campus?
Probably my favorite campus memory is Homecoming 2000, when I was a member of the University of Illinois Homecoming Court. It was exciting to represent the entire student body during the parade and the football game and other campus activities that week.
What activities were you involved in on campus?
I was active in 4-H House Cooperative Sorority. I joined the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow and was also selected for the Student Advancement Committee within the College of ACES. I also attended meetings of Collegiate FFA and the Illini Dairy Club from time to time.