Correction (Dec. 2 12:57 a.m.): Due to a reporting error, an earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the channel that airs STV locally. It appears on cable channel 4. The story has been changed to reflect the correction. The Daily Tar Heel apologizes for the error.
Aspiring soap opera stars, talk show hosts and sitcom writers have practiced their crafts on Student Television for more than 25 years.
This year STV continues that role, introducing new programs aimed at giving back to the UNC community.
New programs this semester include the UNC-oriented program “Carolina Conversations,” which features interviews with leaders of student organizations.
The station also premiered the live sports show “You Make the Call,” which features talks with guests and viewer call-ins, and “Poor Standing,” a sitcom about student life.
“It’s about four friends navigating their way through the undergraduate experience,” said Ramey Mize, who plays Amelia on the show.
“The show is really clever. We’re trying to keep it going as long as we can.”
Creating programming for STV is a time-consuming endeavor. An average show involves writing the plot, multiple takes of the action and extensive editing.
“I wasn’t aware of the amount of work that goes into it. The editing is grueling,” Mize said.
STV airs on Channel 4 on campus and can be seen in the Chapel Hill cable district on channel 3.
Some of STV’s notable programming includes the sketch comedy “Off the Cuff,” the station’s longest-running show.
The snarky soap opera “General College,” which premiered on STV in 1987, was syndicated on the cable station National College Television until 1990, said Streater Kelley, station manager of STV.
Other returning favorites include “Bluelite District,” which features parodies and hidden camera segments, and the comedy talk show “LateNight STV.”
Students outside the cast and crew have two opportunities to air videos they have created on STV.
“The easiest way is Sunday’s ‘Anything Goes,’” Kelley said. “We air anyone’s stuff.”
Students can also submit a promotional episode for review by STV producers that might be turned into a full-time show.
The station also provides free commercials for student organizations.
STV requires students to work ahead, as some programs are filmed in advance and others have to collect materials to use on their live shows.
Kyle Rainey, co-host of “LateNight STV,” said he first learned about STV through a Facebook group.
“Since it’s all students, it’s pretty stress-free,” Rainey said of the work environment at STV.
“Someone’s idea goes straight to the show. It’s much more fun.”
Contact the Arts Editor at artsdesk@unc.edu.
