Joel studied biology with a minor in psychology at the University of Missouri – Saint Louis, graduating in May 2022 with plans to subsequently apply to a medical/graduate program. After graduation, Joel joined the Department of Anesthesiology as a member of the ASSURE summer fellowship. During which, he worked with members of the Haroutounian Lab and continues to assist with research endeavors within the lab. His goal is to practice patient care with an emphasis on underserved communities and promote an inclusive environment to eliminate the barriers to receiving medical care— all while conducting cutting-edge research in the field.