Meet Members of the Class of 2025

Class of 2025
Jared Ingster  
MAJOR: MEDIA ARTS

Jared Ingster didn’t expect a radio station at a community college to change the course of his life. But that’s exactly what happened when he enrolled at Kingsborough Community College.

Ingster, who grew up in Manhattan Beach just a few blocks from Kingsborough, first attended NYU in 2006. He left before finishing, choosing instead to pursue a career in the music business. “I made lots of contacts, got to meet and work with artists I listened to growing up, and acquired many new skills during that time,” he shared.

After spending years working as a warehouse manager and playing in a band, Ingster realized he wanted more from his work—and life. “We ended up needing to take an indefinite hiatus when our singer made it on to the last season of American Idol,” he said. “Kingsborough was initially a means to an end, but joining the radio station changed all of that.”

Now, at 37, Ingster is graduating with a degree in media arts and a new goal: to become a professional radio DJ. “I want to continue hosting an on-air FM radio show, if possible, eventually DJ on SiriusXM Radio, or be a voice actor for film, television, and radio.”

Ingster is already well on his way. He currently serves as president of the Radio Club and is an on-air DJ at WKRB, Kingsborough’s FM station. He also provided the voice-over for a commercial promoting Kingsborough’s services for vets and military personnel, currently running on cable and other outlets. Through the Federal Work Study program, he works as a media assistant, learning valuable behind-the-scenes skills.

One of the greatest challenges he’s faced coming back to school was managing his time. “Most 9–5 jobs end when you clock out,” he said. “But remembering and finding the time for homework was, and remains, my biggest challenge.”

He credits much of his success to the support of faculty and staff. “There have been a few incredible professors and faculty that have been supportive along the way,” he said, naming WKRB Program Director Nicholas Palm, General Manager Valeriya Chulskaya, and professors Thomas Mintz, Margaret Reddan, and Rachel Chow. “Throughout my time here, they helped me and encouraged my growth, offering opportunities and mentorship.”

Outside of the studio, Ingster continues to spend time writing and recording music. His advice for new students? “Be patient with yourself. It’s not a race. Even if it were, the tortoise beat the hare.”

Looking ahead, Ingster is considering transferring to Brooklyn College, the School of Visual Arts, or possibly even returning to NYU. Wherever he goes next, he plans to stay behind the mic.

“The community college stigma is silly,” he said. “Kingsborough has been the ultimate place to help figure out what I might want and helped to get me started on the path towards my goals.”