Ben And Jaren

At the age of five, Jaren Lewison had his life planned out. But he never thought it would happen while he was 19 and playing the namesake thespian in Shakespeare in love because this was when he got the call that he was going to play ben gross in Netflix's never have I ever.

- Amos Chin

"As an artist, I try my best to relinquish control and be present in each moment, but it's hard not to constantly strive for 'perfection'. I've worked on redefining what perfection means to me, and now realise that trying my best while still taking care of mental health is what fulfils me.' - Jaren Lewison

NEVER HAVE I EVER - a popular activity that can either solidify or wither friendships. Despite its popularity, the neurotic game wouldn't be the first thing you see when you google search the title. That glory goes to the Peabody Award-nominated Netflix series. Co-created by Mindy Kaling, the American coming-of-age comedy-drama television series is loosely based on Kaling's childhood experience, which consisted of her struggles navigating high school and of course, teenage love.

Within the series, Ben Gross - portrayed by Jaren Lewison - is a perfectionist who places academic success and passion at the forefront and has inspired overachieving students across the globe. By coincidence, the eclectic young man mirrors a similar persona in reality.

A devoted sportsman, baker, powerlifter and psychology undergraduate, Lewison has always been a huge learner and never once wanted to miss a day of school. Despite the struggles that come with juggling an education and an acting career, the 22-year-old managed to commit to both life-changing endeavours with ease. Oh, and did we mention that he graduated Summa Cum Laude in just three years whilst working full-time on the show? The Never Have I Ever star points out that having good time management skills and maintaining healthy communication with the production coordinators about school conflicts are key.