Monday Mornings with Noah:
ACC Student Taking to Airwaves
By John Tompkins
Noah Paul has always wanted to hear his voice coming over the radio. As a student at Alvin Community College, he has finally gotten his chance.
“I just love FM and AM radio stations,” he said.
Every Monday morning, Paul takes his seat behind the mic in the KACC 89.7 FM studios to introduce the music and talk about sports.
Paul is a student with the Skilled Training Rewarding Independence and Vocational Education (STRIVE) program which provides vocational training for adults with intellectual disabilities with an end goal of transitioning students into the workforce. The program is approaching its 10th anniversary in 2025.
"Being able to collaborate with KACC, Noah has had the opportunity to learn more about what he is passionate about in the communication field in a hands-on and valuable way," said Mary Vlahovich, ACC STRIVE director. "By working with other departments, our students are given an opportunity to network with other students and instructors on campus."
Over the past 10 years STRIVE has helped many students improve their skills to find employment and better their lives.
"Our students have benefitted on many levels being in the STRIVE program," Vlahovich said. "Not only do they make lifelong connections within the program, but they are also increasing their independence by becoming part of the workforce. They are building confidence, increasing their skills and adding value to their communities."
Communications chair Jason Nichols said Paul has been a good addition with KACC students who work in the broadcast studio.
“Noah is a great student,” Nichols said. “He comes to his shift prepared every Monday. It’s obvious to me that he’s done research over the weekend, because he knows exactly what sports topic he wants to discuss.”
Paul said he was inspired to take to the airwaves after starting a small YouTube channel in 2016. Being in the studio has been an awesome experience that he feels will help him in the future.
“I have learned a lot and had a lot of training with Jason about broadcasting,” Paul said.
To learn more please visit the STRIVE program.