BEST ignited his interest in working in higher education administration, leading to his current position as the International Medical Exchange Program Coordinator at the Brown Global Health Initiative. In this position, Arango facilitates international medical exchanges for PLME undergraduates and medical students.

Reflecting on his time in the BEST program, Arango noted how it provided clarity and direction for his career aspirations.

“I was interested, but I did not feel informed on how I could pursue a career in higher education. The weekly speakers provided critical insight as they all had different paths and experiences. At the end of the program, I felt that I could build my own career path,” says Arango.

The program’s emphasis on leadership and professional development inspired Arango to take on leadership roles during his time at Brown. He served on the School of Public Health Graduate Student Council, created the first Latinx student group at the School of Public Health (Students for Latinos/Latinx in Public Health) and coordinated events through the Graduate Community Fellows Program.

“One of the most impactful pieces of advice from the speakers in the BEST program was that I can build my own career path by actively shaping my professional journey. This resonated with me because it reminded me that I don’t have to follow a predefined path—I can create a career that truly aligns with my goals and values,” says Arango. 

Other advice he carries with him is the importance of building connections and the emphasis on inclusive leadership. “I believe that creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and everyone feels empowered to contribute is essential for making a meaningful impact in any field.”

A unique aspect of the BEST program is its mentorship component. Each scholar is paired with an administrative sponsor, meeting regularly to gain insights and guidance. Arango’s mentor was Janet Cooper Nelson, Director of the Office of Chaplains and Religious Life. Through their interactions, he gained a deeper understanding of how Brown supports spiritual life on campus and benefited from Cooper Nelson’s mentorship.

“These lessons have given me a deeper understanding of how to navigate my career while fostering inclusivity and collaboration,” says Arango.

Learn more about the BEST program and how to apply. Deadline: December 2, 2024.