By Rosy Banks
Assistant Living Editor
When East Coast meets West Coast, junior Pete Benigno’s got something to say and he’s not afraid to share it. The Sigma Nu from New Jersey cherishes his time at Pepperdine, but admits aspects of the described Disneyland university are a sharp contrast to his reality.
Benigno’s father worked from the ground up to become a successful entrepreneur and owner of a tire business, and Benigno says that hard-working standard has been instilled in him since he was a boy. Frustrated with those who don’t see the whole picture, Benigno wants others to keep in touch with reality in a place as surreal as Pepperdine.
“I like genuine people, those not concerned with the material and unimportant aspects of life,” Benigno said. “I am blessed to be walking to class while looking at the ocean, BENIGNO
but I don’t think many people realize that
every day.”
Benigno left his family, best friends and a college baseball team recruitment to finish his academic career at Pepperdine. It’s been a bumpy road but Benigno has made a new core group of friends through his fraternity and keeps in touch with his buds from home almost every day.
Forced to have an open mind when coming to Pepperdine because the atmosphere was completely foreign, now he knows it was one of the best decisions he’s made. Staying objective has helped him meet unique friends from all walks of life, but he’s also met some who set what he calls “blocks” to the world.
“I have a problem with people who look down on drinking and other habits as a weakness, or look at it as evil,” Benigno said. “I am tolerant of tons of different people who like to do different things, and I would want them in return to tolerate my habits. The world would be easier with more open-minded people.”
Loyal to his brothers and friends from home, Benigno is eager to make new, true friendships at Pepperdine and claims that is one reason his fraternity Sigma Nu is so important to him. He hopes administration and students in the future will focus on different philosophies, just as he has adjusted to a new mind set here in Malibu.
What do you do in your spare time?
Have a good time, party and try not to let it get in the way of school.
What is your favorite food?
A New York slice of pizza, which we don’t have anywhere here in Southern California. It would mean so much more out here because it tastes like home. That pizza embodies high school and every bite starts me thinking.
How are things different here compared to home?
The East Coast is much faster paced and more real. At Pepperdine the religious aspect is a valuable part but we need to set focus on a lot of other things than solely religion. Instead of spending tons of money on bands that don’t get a lot of results it would be more advantageous to do fund raising with name bands people know and like.
What is your pet peeve?
When someone calls you then starts talking to someone else in the background. If you want to talk to me, talk to me.
How would your friends describe you?
A little outta control but loyal and genuine. If I feel someone’s my true friend and I know feelings are mutual I would do anything in my will I could for them, no strings attached. I could cause I know they would do the same for me. There are not that many true friends out there so I value the ones I have.
Are you content with Pepperdine even though you miss home?
Sometimes I’m not too happy about their rules and regulations, but it’s a great place and a unique experience. I wouldn’t go anywhere else, and I am very happy right now.
Who’s your role model?
My dad who has let me live a very good life I am proud of every day. I hope to be close to being as successful as he is one day. Also, Dave Matthews because he makes amazing music and follows his heart and dreams. He makes more money than God knows who but it doesn’t matter to him because he is doing what he loves and he’d be doing it anyways. Love every minute of it. That is success to me.
How do you feel about the New York, New Jersey rivalry?
I always catch stabs for being from New Jersey because it has the reputation of being an ugly, industrial state. But really its one of the most beautiful states in America. You can drive 45 minutes to go skiing, I’m a half-hour from New York and I can go to my friends’ shore houses on beautiful beaches. It’s so diverse, you can do pretty much anything you want, anywhere you want. My heart will always lie in New Jersey.
October 02, 2003