Ben Kistler
Major: Human Biology
School: College of Arts & Sciences
Year: Senior
Hometown: Fort Wayne, IN
IU Student Involvement
"I am currently the Vice president of STEM Outreach where we go to schools and organizations around Bloomington and teach kids about topics in STEM through fun activities. I am also getting involved with the adaptive SCUBA program at IU where we will get kids and students with disabilities in the pool with gear on to enjoy diving!"
Advice to underclassmen
"Get involved and try something new! It's a great way to stay busy and meet new friends."
How do you respond to setbacks? Do you have any tips for being resilient?
"I respond to setbacks by analyzing where I went wrong in a situation and then trying again while making adjustments along the way. Office hours can be daunting, but if you are struggling in a class they can really help you to learn the information."
What do you enjoy most about your IU experience?
"I have enjoyed my classes the most during my IU experience. If you really commit yourself to learning it's amazing how it can change your perspective on the world and life."
How 21st Century Has Helped You Succeed
"The 21st Century Scholars Program has helped me to succeed by allowing me to focus on class work and not on how I have to pay for school."
Future goals/career hopes
"I hope to be accepted into medical school after I graduate and become a medical doctor someday. I would like to become a Naval Undersea Medical Officer."
Favorite thing about IU
"My favorite thing about IU is all the nature you can find in and around campus. I love walking through Dunn Meadow and around Griffey Lake and seeing how they change throughout the year."
Why IU?
"I chose IU because I wanted to be surrounded by a diverse campus that would push me to learn and spark my interest in something new."