Name: Edwin Obana

Location: San Diego, CA

Mentor Profile:

I always loved playing with my little cousins, nephews, and nieces when growing up. I aspire to become a good role model and find teaching others to be very rewarding. By majoring in Biopsychology, I have learned the science behind brain developement and cognitive disabilities. I think my educational background has also inspired and motivated me to help the disabled population.

Education: I graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2009 with a B.S. in Biopsychology. I plan on attending graduate school to achieve a masters degree and/or a Ph.D in biomedical science with an emphasis in neuroscience. I am very fortunate to have an education in understanding the biology of the brain and to be able to interact with the disabled population. I hope that by combining these two aspects, it will help me better understand developmental disabilities. Someday, I aspire to contribute to the ongoing research.

Experience: I have interacted with a child who was born prematurely and has developmental disabilities. I think patience, encouragement and a positive attitude through social interaction has assisted in the childs mental development and has given her confidence to continue learning.

Hobbies & Skills: I have always enjoyed learning about science, especially how the brain functions. I used to dance hip hop in high school and college, so I love dancing and all types of music. I am very family oriented and like spending time with my family and close friends. I like to go jogging, hiking, playing tennis and volleyball. I also like art history and animals.

Why ExciteSteps? One of my goals in life is to make a positive impact on the lives of other people and Xcite Steps has given me that opportunity. I know the director and co-founders carefully pair each child, teen or adult with the perfect mentor to make sure the individual with a cognitive or developmental disability is comfortable and able to grow academically and socially. The communication between mentor, director, and parent is very well organized; this is imperative for scheduling mentor sessions and observing the child, teen, or adults progress. Xcite Steps is a great program with motivated and positive mentors who love helping others.

Our Services are available in the following areas:

San Diego (North)

• Rancho Santa Fe
• Del Mar
• Poway
• Encinitas
• Carlsbad
• Carmel Valley

San Diego (South)

• La Jolla
• Clairemont
• Downtown
• Coronado
• El Cajon
• Chula Vista

Orange Country

• Newport Beach
• Dana Point
• Irvine
• Laguna Beach
• Laguna Niguel
• San Clemente