At New Trier, many students face the issue of balancing academics and extracurriculars. For some, academics takes up a significant percentage of their day, resulting in less time to participate in activities students may be passionate about. 

For senior and WNTH host Andrew Moerschel, balancing academics and extracurriculars is tricky, but results in a worthwhile outcome. 

Many Americans perceive radio as an outlet for entertainment and news, but for Moerschel, it travels deeper. 

“Radio embodies the birth of modern media that dominates pop culture today,” he began, “its emphasis on the spoken word, its immediacy in everyday life and the ability to send information to an audience that can stretch from coast to coast has been a major source of inspiration in my constant drive to become a better communicator.” 

Another source of inspiration for Moerschel stemmed from radio’s power to bring people of different backgrounds together. To move beyond WNTH, Moerschel landed various gigs on his way towards pursuing his dream. 

“I’ve interned with WCGO 1590AM and 95.9FM, and [now] I’ve been hired to produce three programs as a Multimedia Producer. As of June 2019, I was hired as an audio producer for the nationally-syndicated political talk program Beyond the Beltway with Bruce DuMont.” 

While work life and academics take up a large portion of Moerschel’s time, he admits it can be difficult.  

“One of the largest costs of starting a career is losing time and will-power to reconnect with those I love,” he said. 

He emphasizes the importance of taking up hobbies outside of work-related passions. 

“It has become a dedicated activity of mine to assemble a full-service, multi-faceted brewing station [for my tea],” Moerschel said, “I spend a significant amount of effort, much to the laughter of my family and friends, exploring high-end loose leaf tea from many parts of the world.” 

To balance academics, Moerschel says communicating with his teachers helps ensure academic sustainability. 

“I try my best to get sleep, keep track of my assignments and make sure I have a clear communication line to my teachers when I need them to assist me. Having strong relationships helps me achieve a clearer picture of [my goals].” 

In school, Moerschel enjoys courses where he can study works with his peers and teachers.

“My favorite course is English. I enjoy analyzing literature and delving deep into the symbolism of art. There is something about experiencing a piece of work alongside a group of people my age or older that is truly unifying,” Moerschel stated. 

Career-wise, Moerschel adds that his journey might be a difficult one, but with time and effort, it can be achievable. 

“I am in the process of developing my own content for television, radio, podcasting and social media. Within the next few months, I intend to expand my focus to include more live television production and eventually explore documentary filmmaking.” 

“I would advise to anyone who wants to embark upon a career at this age to make it a routine to ask themselves if they are truly gaining satisfaction from what they are doing,” Moerschel stated, “Seek out moments to breathe and sit back in appreciation of your efforts. Learn to take constructive criticism and develop close relationships with those around you.” 

Moerschel embodies the idea that students at New Trier aren’t just “students”— they can fulfill their aspirations by balancing academics and extracurriculars to fulfill their dreams. To Moerschel, he’s not just a student, rather he prefers the term entrepreneur.