KINSTON, NC — For University of Mount Olive (UMO) senior Jevon Benjamin, the journey to his passion for exercise science and rehabilitation has been anything but conventional. At 30, the Charlotte, NC native is a U.S. Air Force veteran, the oldest of ten siblings, and a dedicated student approaching May graduation. Now interning at UNC Health Lenoir’s Cardiac Rehab and Wellness Center in Kinston, Benjamin is gaining real-world experience, which is shaping his future career in physical therapy.

Benjamin’s story begins with his service in the U.S. Air Force, where he worked as an aircraft mechanic at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. While the military provided him with valuable skills and discipline, he yearned for a career with more personal fulfillment.

“One of the most impactful experiences I had was interacting with veterans who had served in past wars,” Benjamin shared. “Many of them faced significant struggles with their post-service healthcare. Hearing about their challenges made me start thinking about ways I could help.”

Determined to make a difference, Benjamin enrolled at the University of Mount Olive in August 2022, seeking his undergraduate degree.  He discovered a passion for exercise science. His goal soon became clear: to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and specialize in rehabilitation for veterans.

Benjamin is interning at UNC Health Lenoir’s Cardiac Rehab and Wellness Center as part of his academic journey. His daily responsibilities include leading group warm-ups, developing personalized patient training plans, inspecting and maintaining exercise equipment, leading group fitness classes, and monitoring patient progress.

“This internship has been an incredible learning experience,” Benjamin said. “I’ve gained hands-on knowledge in patient care, exercise prescription, and rehab techniques while also learning the importance of adaptability and teamwork.”

While he has enjoyed working in cardiac rehabilitation, the experience has confirmed his true calling in physical therapy. “I want to work in veteran rehabilitation, focusing on injury recovery, mobility restoration, and improving the quality of life for those who have served by using targeted physical therapy interventions,” he explained.

Benjamin credits UMO with helping him transition from military service to a career that aligns with his passion. He highlights the small class sizes, supportive professors, and hands-on learning opportunities as key factors in his success.

“UMO has given me the educational background and confidence to pursue a career I truly care about,” he said. “My professors, especially Dr. Mark Deaton, have been incredibly supportive. His experience in cardiac rehab and exercise physiology has been invaluable, and I know I can look to him as a mentor beyond my time at UMO.”

With a 3.5 GPA and a strong commitment to his studies, Benjamin is determined to continue his education after graduation. He plans to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs in North Carolina, with the long-term goal of working in veteran rehabilitation.

“I want to provide rehab services for veterans recovering from injuries, work in a VA hospital or private clinic, contribute to research on improving rehab techniques, and advocate for better healthcare options for veterans,” Benjamin said. “I still have a lot of work ahead of me, but I’m excited for the journey.”

In his final semester at UMO, Benjamin remains focused on his mission: to help others regain their strength and independence. His dedication, resilience, and commitment to making a difference exemplify the very essence of UMO’s tagline—transforming lives and transforming education.

For now, Benjamin continues to push forward, knowing that every experience, every lesson, and every patient interaction is shaping him into the physical therapist and advocate he aspires to be. “I don’t consider myself the smartest or most talented person in the room. I am someone who shows up, works hard, and keeps improving. My goal is simple: to help people improve their quality of life, and I’m willing to put in the work to make that happen.”