Benny reminds us to advocate for ourselves and put ourselves out there to find our people!

Name, School, Major, Hometown: Benjamin (Benny) Magid, CC, Computer Science, Lexington, MA

Claim to fame: WKCR Director of Operations

Where are you going? I’m going to stay in NYC, working as a Software Engineer at Tapad, an ad tech firm.

What are three things you learned at Columbia and would like to share with the Class of 2027? 

I learned at Columbia that…

1. You have to be an advocate for yourself especially with admin and profs.
2. Start applying to jobs early.
3. Find your people asap—the more you put yourself out there the better you’ll find the people that make you happy.

“Back in my day…” People would drink Voda weekly in my John Jay double… on a cardboard platter so as not to drip on my Columbia furniture.

Favorite Columbia controversy? I think a good Columbia controversy is 1021—let it be known I hated the place before we found out the owner sucked.

What was your favorite class at Columbia? My favorite class was Dutch Art History with Adam Eaker (Met curator of their Dutch art).

Would you rather give up oral sex or cheese? Cheese is immensely important. Never give up my aged cheddar.

Whom would you like to thank? I’d like to thank Red Stein—the previous Director of Operations at WKCR, who kept the station alive during COVID and led the recruitment right after we got back from home school.

One thing to do before graduating: Definitely go to Good Room—best club.

Any regrets? Definitely regret working too hard during my freshman year. Columbia’s grade inflation will keep you alive; don’t worry.

Benny via Benny