After falling for the charms of the Sooner State as a student at Oklahoma State University, Max Gross is excited to start his career in his new home. Gross, an STAA member, is the new Assistant Sports/News Director for the Bartlesville Radio Group.
“It gives me a chance to stay in Oklahoma, which is a place I’ve grown to love. And, it has made relocation much easier. I will also have the opportunity to broadcast college games for Oklahoma Wesleyan, which isn’t something I expected to do right away.
“Another perk is getting to work with three other graduates of the OSU sports media program so I already have some common ground with my new co-workers.”
News of the opening was emailed to STAA members, but Gross learned about it through grapevine connections.
“The owners of the Bartlesville station reached to one of my sports media professors at OSU. I then learned that OSU play-by-play voice Dave Hunziker, who has served as my mentor over the last year, was old friends with the station owner.”
Gross has built a resume that includes radio and TV experience. He spent last summer calling collegiate baseball as the voice of the Newark Pilots.
When it came time to set himself apart in the sportscasting job market, Gross made an impression by going several extra miles.
“Something I did that I think that really helped myself was making the two hour drive to Bartlesville to give the station my demo and cover letter in person. I only spoke to the receptionist when I was there, but I got a phone call later that day just thanking me for making the effort. I think this made a very strong first impression.”
Gross is now looking forward to using his STAA membership for a new purpose.
“My STAA membership was a great resource during my job search. I was able to learn what employers were looking for. Now that I can devote myself to broadcasting full-time I plan to continue to use the site to strengthen my play-by-play. The insight provided in the members section has and will continue to be helpful.
“This is such an incredible opportunity for me to get my start. [STAA] has been a major asset to me in my job search.”
(Visit Max’s website).