A person who wants to work as a TV meteorologist or weatherperson must be familiar with both meteorology and broadcasting. While a bachelor’s degree in a related field is not always required to become a TV meteorologist, it may be beneficial. Internships and part-time jobs at television stations are also good ways for aspiring TV weathercasters to learn about broadcast television and make contacts in the industry. Finally, meteorologists should put together a strong video reel that highlights their reporting abilities and personal style.
Though not all TV meteorologists have a degree in meteorology, those with some formal training in the subject may have more job opportunities. Many universities offer degrees in meteorology or atmospheric science, which can both be used to start a career in television. Students may also want to take communications or journalism classes in college to start honing their speaking skills and understanding of broadcast news shows. Students can become familiar with the complex terminology, mathematics, and unique world of weather by focusing on meteorology in school. When on the job, a meteorologist with a strong understanding of the terms and underlying science may come across as more authoritative and knowledgeable.
College can also be a great place for a student who wants to work as a TV meteorologist to gain real-world experience. Some schools have an on-campus television station that is run and staffed entirely by students, making it a great place to learn about how television shows work. During their first year, students should volunteer at an on-campus station to gain seniority and begin applying for on-air broadcasting positions. Any person aspiring to be a TV meteorologist should work their way up to an on-air position, as clips from appearances can later be incorporated into a professional reel.
Students pursuing a degree in communications or meteorology may be able to find an internship or part-time position at a local television station if their campus does not have any television opportunities. Internships are a fantastic way for students to learn on the job while also establishing a professional reputation and making contacts in the field. When a student is ready to graduate and pursue a professional career, he or she may be able to use these contacts to learn about job openings.
A strong video reel is one of the most important requirements for becoming a TV meteorologist. A meteorologist’s reel should ideally include several clips of him or her giving weather reports, analyzing meteorological data, and discussing important weather topics. If a person does not have any on-air experience, he or she may need to start from scratch when creating a reel. Consider hiring a professional filmmaking team to film and edit the reel to ensure a polished final product. Try contacting film students from nearby colleges to help create the reel for a low-budget option that can still yield good results.