With both parents constantly working to support Benjamin and his two sisters, young Bratton's mother often pushed him into sports, hoping to keep him away from the trouble and distractions of an inner-city neighborhood.

He led the 2007 St John's University fencing team to fourth place at the 2007 NCAA tournament, with an individual silver medal in épée.

[3] Awarded a full athletic scholarship, Benjamin went on to earn a master's degree in Psychology while working to leave his mark on the NCAA fencing circuit and also accomplishing his goal of making his first US National Team.

Under the guidance of Red Storm coach Yuri Gelman, Bratton was able to successfully balance academics and athletic aspirations.

In addition, upon his commencement from the St. Johns University, Bratton was awarded the Frank G. Haggerty trophy which is bestowed upon the “outstanding student athlete of the year”.