Many dream of being on television, and student-run television station Cable 8 offers that opportunity to everyone on campus.

Established in 1986, Cable 8 exists as a creative outlet for communications and broadcast majors. Cable 8 is a unique opportunity not offered at most universities.

Ranked high among other broadcasting programs across the nation, Cable 8 has received numerous awards and gained recognition by the Regional Emmys and National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATUS) Northwest.

Herman Meier, president and general manager of Cable 8, assured all the tools the station uses are aligned with industry standards.

“In most programs, you can’t use any professional equipment until your junior year,” Meier said. “We provide that for everyone, including freshmen and sophomores.”

Recently the station secured a new switcher previously used during the 2012 Summer Olympics, which is the same model NBC’s studio uses to produce 30 Rock.

Other pieces picked-up by Cable 8 include five new field cameras. These new additions alone give each production a fresh video quality up to par with other mainstream shows on current cable stations.

“It’s important to us that nothing is outdated,” Meier said. “We strive to give students the resources they will get out in the industry.”

More than providing students superior guidance throughout their college experience, Cable 8 helps connect graduates with alumni working in the broadcasting field, Meier said.

Alumni Mike Harvey, for example, is a leading outlet for those connected with the station. Harvey currently works in Southern California piloting shows such as “Men at Work” and others for TBS and MTV. Through him, Cable 8 is able to assist graduates in landing strong starting positions.

Denise Gibbs, vice president of public relations and alumni affairs, is proud of how the program is currently running.

“This is going to sound cheesy, but the station really is a big family,” Gibbs said. “We work all hours of the night and become really close through the good and the bad.”

Cable 8 is currently producing six programs with plenty of opportunities for both full-time and part-time volunteers. However, that will change next semester as staff and programs continuously evolve.

“Unfortunately, we only have five executive positions that receive pay,” Gibbs said. “But students who don’t want to just volunteer can gain credits as assistant directors and producers. It’s an internship that works with each individual’s schedule.”

Gibbs said the station is always looking for new ideas and new volunteers. If interested, contact information and applications can be found on Cable8.org.