Steve Kastenbaum, a student with 30 years of journalism experience, explains why he's back in school.
This episode of 15 Minute Story features host Sid interviewing Steve Kastenbaum, a third-semester student at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. Steve is an atypical student with over 30 years of professional journalism experience. He explains he was drawn to the program specifically because it is designed for non-traditional students like himself.
Steve began his career after high school at Kingsborough Community College, which had a broadcast journalism program taught by working professionals. One of his adjunct professors helped him secure a part-time production assistant role at radio station 1010 WINS when he was just 19 years old. His first tasks involved physically cutting audio tape with a razor blade and an edit block. He worked his way up at the station over a decade to become a general assignment reporter. Colleagues and professors from his professional network later encouraged him to pursue his master's degree at Craig Newmark.
A compelling insight is that Steve spent years planning to earn his degree, but his demanding work schedule consistently delayed his goal. He finds it notable that many of his former colleagues now teach at the journalism school he attends. The episode highlights the value of hands-on, apprentice-style learning, as Steve's entire career launched from a community college connection. His story underscores that a direct, non-linear path into journalism remains viable and respected.
The conversation is informal, friendly, and focused on personal narrative. The tone is reflective and conversational, emphasizing career journey and educational philosophy.
This episode would appeal to aspiring journalists, career-changers, or anyone interested in non-traditional educational paths. Listeners seeking highly technical journalism advice or breaking news analysis might find it less directly relevant.
