About Ben Heinisch:
I am originally from Columbus, Nebraska, and I’ve lived in Lincoln since 2001. I graduated from Columbus High School and stayed in Nebraska to study psychology at Nebraska Wesleyan University. After receiving my bachelor’s degree, I worked as a parent educator for several years until I decided to break into the education business where I worked as an assistant in the Office of the University Registrar. I also became a part-time graduate student and received my master's of arts in educational psychology from the Counseling Psychology Program in 2012. I am now an academic advisor, and after moonlighting as a part-time counselor for a year, I’m pursuing a Ph.D. in education studies with an emphasis in higher education administration.
What is your position at UNL?
I’ve been an academic advisor/recruiter for the forensic science program in CASNR since September 2012. I also advise many of the biochemistry majors in CASNR. My role is to be an advocate for students in these programs, and to help them navigate every stage of their academic career, from prospective student to graduating senior.
What drew you to UNL?
My father has taught biology at Central Community College in Columbus for 35 years plus, and my mother is the director of their trio program, so growing up, the importance of higher education was always emphasized. I recognize how important it is to support students in their mission to be the best version of themselves, and education is integral to their success. Where better to be plugged in to promote student success than UNL!
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
I thoroughly love working with students and helping them achieve success, and I always look forward to interacting with my colleagues in the college and around the UNL advising community. Everyone here is so professional, yet approachable; they create such a positive working and learning environment.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My kids are my greatest achievement, but educationally, so far I’m very proud of the work I’ve done in graduate school. Maybe in a couple of years I can say my greatest achievement is completing my doctoral program!
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I am a semi-serious musician who writes and records music. I’ve been in several bands through the years and play intermittently around the Lincoln area. I play multiple instruments and sing as well. In fact, for a while my wife and I hosted karaoke at a Lincoln bar every Friday night.
What is your life like outside of work?
My life outside of work includes spending time with my family, binge-reading science fiction and horror novels, writing songs and chipping away at schoolwork. I also play guitar in a church worship band. I try to support the home football team in person when I can, and feverishly watch the games on TV when I can’t.