Emily Benitez
Emily Benitez
Class Year
’21
Current home
Kenosha, Wis.
Major(s)
Neuroscience
Current Position
Graduate student, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Emily Benitez graduated in 2021 with a degree in neuroscience. She is currently a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse where she is enrolled in the Doctorate of Physical Therapy program. Her favorite part of physical therapy is the connection between the patients and their therapists.
While at Carthage, Ms. Benitez was awarded the Haribo Scholarship, worked as a neuroscience lab manager, and was involved in the National Society of Leadership and Success.
Ms. Benitez’s favorite memories at Carthage include being part of her sorority, Chi Omega, and working as a neuroscience fellow during the 2020-21 school year. She thanks Carthage for pushing her to be a leader, a scholar, and a friend to those around her.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I have worked in the outpatient physical therapy setting at Sports Physical Therapists in Kenosha for the past three years, and I really enjoy the one-on-one interaction and relationship between the patients and the therapists.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“The Neuroscience Department, especially Professor Daniel Miller, has been a large part of my journey into applying to graduate school. In particular, the rat lab class further sparked my interest in neuroscience and working as a lab tech and manager for the last two years has facilitated my passion to pursue neuro physical therapy in my future therapy career.”
How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?
“The top two attributes that I gained from Carthage that will help most for my future career are the intimate science classes that provided hands-on learning, and the writing-intensive courses that are required for all Carthage graduates. Due to both of these, I am able to have amazing and rare hands-on knowledge from the labs I performed as well as confidence in my writing, from an email to a research grant proposal.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because I am from Kenosha, and I wanted to stay close to home. The neuroscience major also played a large factor in my decision, as I knew I wanted to attend a smaller school with that major.”
What opportunities were made possible because of your Carthage experience?
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“Prof. Miller truly took on one of the biggest roles in my undergraduate studies as a mentor and supporter. He gave me the best opportunities to grow in the neuroscience major as well as thrive in the laboratory research setting with the rats. My Carthage experience would not be the same without him. Secondly, biology professor Professor Paul Martino was my advisor and mentor. He’s always so encouraging and helpful, and truly kept me motivated for applying to PT school.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“Seeking truth is truly a four-year journey as you move through undergrad, but it is a value that stays with you forever. Carthage has not only taught me to seek the truth but also to build strength and confidence in all aspects of my life while sharing my growth and knowledge with others.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“Some of my favorite Carthage memories were made within my sorority, Chi Omega. The women of Chi Omega shaped me into the resilient and strong woman I am today.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Tackle the challenging courses with confidence! Everything works out in the end, and your hard work will be very worth it.”