10 Questions with ... Erica DeCosta

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I can't entirely remember how, I just know it has always been a thought in the back of my mind of possibly pursuing. I'm a Music Business major here at Lindenwood, so I had always known I wanted to do something along the lines of music, as it is what I'm most passionate about, and I love that I'm able to do that and serve at a discovery outlet for new music.

2. Who are your mentors?

I would say my main mentor has been Jessica Hodge who was just recently MD before I took over. She has taken me under her wing for over a year now, showing me the ropes of the station. She was the one who granted me this great opportunity, and I could not be any more grateful!

3. How would you describe the music on the station?

The music on our station is its absolute own thing. From bigger, more-known artists to smaller, independent bands, the music is so diverse while keeping an all-around great sound. It's easy to hear your lifetime favorite anthem play, and then shortly after, your next favorite song.

4. How are the music meetings conducted at KCLC?

Meetings now are quite casual and weekly, mainly to go over exactly what is going on/coming up in the industry.

5. What is your biggest challenge at the station?

I feel like there is always something new to learn, and as I am now taking over as MD, that challenge is even scarier, but I know I am completely up to that challenge.

6. Besides your own, what is your favorite radio format?

I'm a huge fan of Alternative. Even before I got involved with the station, my favorite music would lean towards smaller, lesser known bands with that unique sound. My music taste just hasn't yet left my teen angst phase, I assume.

7. What would surprise people most about the station?

You could find your new absolute favorite song without even trying! There's such a diverse sound with bands and artists who are up and coming, I know I personally found so much more great music ever since I started listening.

8. What is the best advice you have been given?

Don't let my doubts and anxiety get in the way of my dreams and what I want to do in my life. There have been many occasions where I had stopped myself from doing something I wanted to do because I was scared or doubted myself. If I wouldn't have overcome those feelings, I wouldn't be anywhere near where I am today.

9. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully done with school and happily establishing my career doing something to do with what I'm most passionate about, that being music.

10. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without ...

... Coffee!

Last non-industry job:

Sales Associate at JCPenney

First record ever purchased:

Taylor Swift's self-titled album

First concert:

Taylor Swift, Fearless Tour

Favorite band of all-time:

Currently, definitely The 1975

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work and school?

I love going to small venue concerts with friends or just going home to spend time with my family, including my dog and cat whom I absolutely adore.