Binyamin Zirman
#MyYUstory
Hey. I’m Binyamin Zirman from Teaneck, NJ. I am completing a double major in Finance and Data Analytics (BIMA).
My YU story started during my gap year in Israel. When I was deciding on where to attend college, I was torn. I still couldn’t decide between University of Maryland and Yeshiva University. Then I had a life-altering experience.
I suffered a serious concussion and facial fracture while playing flag football. The pain and isolation gave me some much-needed time for reflection, and I realized I wanted more from my life than I was currently giving. I decided to take my learning more seriously and, after a second year in Israel, to attend a university where I would be challenged to lead a meaningful life.
I came to YU in the honors program. Being surrounded by people achieving at the highest level in every industry is a great motivator. Professors, administrators and alumni have also helped me so much. The school really is a community of people who help each other out. I decided to merge my interests in business and sports to pursue a career in sports analytics. With some networking assistance, I have gotten many incredible jobs and internships include one with Brooklyn Nets. I am also planning on interning with the New York Nets in the summer.
In addition to learning and studying, I have also worked every semester while a student at YU. I am proud to be financing my education myself through a combination of scholarships, loans and working. YU has been amazing in helping me find appropriate jobs and internships, and professors understand that I have to balance employment with my school workload.
One job that has changed my life is my position as YU’s Gift of Life “Campus Ambassador.” A few months into the position in my freshman year, I found out I was a match for 67-year-old woman with Leukemia. I was able to make a bone marrow donation and save her life. It was an incredible experience.
Judaism teaches a lot about growing oneself and maximizing our abilities. The dual curriculum creates a more serious atmosphere that includes living ethically. It forces you to look at the big picture and see the impact of your actions.This is what I wanted out of college and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.