#MeetTheClass: Neville Bhandara, ’26 M.A. Arts and Culture

Meet Neville Bhandara, ’26 M.A. Arts and Culture, a former Copy Director at Vogue India, sharpening his skills at CJS. 

March 12, 2026

Where are you from and what program are you pursuing? 

I'm from Mumbai, India, and I'm in the M.A. Arts & Culture program.

What inspired you to attend Columbia Journalism School?

I've been a journalist for 13 years, working as both a writer and editor, with my most recent stint being the Copy Director at Vogue India. I decided to attend Columbia Journalism School because I wanted to upskill, and nowhere else came close when I thought about where I could do that. The M.A. program has really pushed me to think in newer, deeper ways. 

After the J-School, what would you like to do? 

I hope to return to working in lifestyle media, armed with a deeper understanding of cultural reporting and arts criticism.  

What is your favorite activity/location in NYC so far? 

I love long walks in Central Park, bar-hopping on the weekends, and scouting for the best steaks across the city.