Benji's educational journey began at the University of Texas at Austin, where he double-majored in Biology and Neuroscience, receiving the highest honors in both. While at UT, Benji served as the volunteer chair for the Texas Running Club, as Health Professions Coordinator for the AED Pre-Med Honor Society, and received two Tower Awards for outstanding community engagement. During his studies, he worked several jobs, including Teaching Assistant (Neural System I, Animal Behavior, Physics I), Medical Assistant (Austin Neurological Clinic), and Emergency Medical Technician (Capitol Medical Service, American Medical Response).
Benji's passion for inspiring and guiding the next generation of medical professionals is evident through his extensive involvement in mentoring and volunteering activities. He has worked with students at various stages of their educational journey, from middle school to college and beyond, through programs such as Future Doctor Pathways, UTSW Stars Program, and Campus Tours.
One of Benji's greatest strengths as a mentor is his ability to connect with students on a personal level and tailor his approach to their individual needs. He takes the time to understand each student's unique background, goals, and challenges, working closely with them to develop a customized plan for success. His expertise in time management and his experience creating "SMART" goals make him an ideal coach for students seeking to optimize their application timeline and stay on track.
In addition to his impressive academic and mentoring achievements, Benji has a diverse range of experiences that contribute to his effectiveness as a guide for aspiring medical students. His work as a Medical Assistant at Austin Neurological Clinic and as an Emergency Medical Technician has provided him with insider information into the healthcare field.