Meet the Team
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Benjamin Botnik: Co-Founder & President
I am a senior at the Macaulay Honors College of Hunter College and am majoring in the Biological Sciences on the pre-medical track. The Memories4Generations program was created to address an important issue in our communities - a lack of memory stimulating activities for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions. We strive to awaken old and form new positive memories through fun and engaging exercises. All of this is done through intergenerational bonding, connections that I believe are essential to the well-being of younger and older individuals. In my free time, I am a competitive chess player and an avid baker.
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Monil Patel: Co-Founder
I am a senior studying Biochemistry on the Pre-Med Track. I am passionate about medicine because I want to combine my love for science with helping people directly, and Memories4Generations is a place where I can create meaningful connections while giving back to the community. In my free time, I love playing basketball, tennis, and spending time with friends and family.
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Bijay Thapaliya: Co-Founder
I am a rising senior, majoring in BiologicalScience on the Pre-Medical track. Memories4Generations is a place where I can connect with older adults in my community through fun and meaningful engagement. In my free time, I love fitness, music, and learning new skills.
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Joshua Shoykhet: Volunteer
I am a senior majoring in Biology and on the Pre-Med track. This opportunity stood out to me because of the clear impact we are able to make from day one. I am passionate about medicine because of the life changing impact physicians have on their patients through healing and a compassionate relationship. In my free time I like to watch sports and go to the gym.
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Daria Vasilchenko: Volunteer
I am a senior studying biological sciences on the pre med track. I am passionate about medicine because it’s a field filled with challenge but also one where I can make a direct and meaningful impact. My involvement with Memories4Generations has given me firsthand insight on the importance of empathy, patience and human connection in care. In my free time I love to read, spend time outside, and try new foods.
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Judah Farkas: Volunteer
I am a junior in the Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College, majoring in Biochemistry on the Pre-Med Track. I am passionate about medicine, and Memories for Generations is a place where I can support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease while also contributing to efforts that help minimize the progression of their condition. In my free time, I enjoy playing basketball and guitar.
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Anisa Turaeva: Volunteer
I am a senior at Baruch College majoring in Biological Sciences. I’m extremely honored to be part of a program that uplifts and supports a a community that deserves care, compassion, and human connection. Being a volunteer for Memories4Generations is incredibly rewarding, and it’s inspiring to see the positive impact we make firsthand. The program’s memory-focused exercises provides an engaging approach to supporting individuals affected by neurodegenerative conditions. I’m grateful to contribute to this mission and can’t wait to see our team continue to grow.
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Rawnaa Elshit: Volunteer
I am a recent Bachelor of Arts graduate pursuing a career in medicine. I have a strong interest in neuroscience and brain health, and I am passionate about understanding and supporting individuals affected by cognitive disorders. Volunteering with the program has allowed me to engage directly with individuals living with neurodegenerative conditions, reinforcing my commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care as I prepare for medical school.
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Samuel Sokol: Volunteer
I am a senior studying computer science at the Macaulay Honors College at Queens College and will be attending law school in fall of 2026. Alzheimer's is a disease that holds deep personal significance for me as several members of my family have been affected by it. I find the work done at Memories4Generations – in providing support to those living with the disease and in helping to slow its progression – incredibly meaningful and fulfilling. In my free time, I am an avid chess player, rock climber, and Boston sports fan.
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Yonathan Eilon: Volunteer
I am a junior at the Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College majoring in Biochemistry and Theater on the pre-medical track. Memories4Generations allows me to gain experience in interacting with and caring for seniors with degenerative neurological conditions, while also helping them manage their symptoms and strengthen their cognitive abilities. I also assist with interorganizational outreach and training new volunteers to help advance this important mission. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and attending live theater performances.
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Rayyan Bhuiyan: Operations & Technology Coordinator
I’m a senior majoring in Biochemistry and planning to apply to medical school in 2026. With an aging population, I believe programs like Memories4Generations play an important role in keeping seniors engaged in fun, physical, and socially enriching ways. Outside academics, I love staying active through rock climbing and tennis, and enjoy winding down by playing the guitar
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Renee Tso: Volunteer
I am a current sophomore studying nursing. I’m passionate about nursing because I enjoy helping others and hope to make a positive impact through healthcare. Memories4Generations is a place where I can build meaningful connections, gain hands-on experience, and grow as a future nurse. In my free time, I enjoy dancing, traveling, watching movies, and taking photos.
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Evelyn Roizin: Volunteer
I am a fourth year pre-medical student studying Biological Sciences. I am passionate about Memories4Generations because it allows for people to give back and form insightful connections with seniors in the community. Beyond academics, I love to play tennis, watercolor, and watch old films with family and friends.
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Martyna Kulec: Volunteer
I am a Hunter College graduate with a major in Biology (Behavioral Neurobiology) and a minor in Public Health. I plan to attend medical school, with my passion for medicine shaped by experiences in women’s health and emergency medicine. Memories4Generations offers a meaningful way to support those facing neurodegenerative diseases, emphasizing the value of cognitive engagement and continued research. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and trying new recipes.
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Kiana Guarino: Volunteer
I graduated in 2025 from Hunter College with a degree in Human Biology and am pursuing admission to PA school. I’m passionate about opportunities like Memories4Generations because they allow me to support people in need while forming meaningful, lasting connections. In my free time, I like to exercise, do outdoor activities, listen to music, and watch my favorite shows.