After graduating high school early, Ren received a merit scholarship to Brandeis University, where he began studying philosophy and economics on a pre-law track. He later transferred to NYU to study and accept a job opportunity in finance.

Ren and Cole met by chance in New York and co-founded the New York Philosophical Society, a 501(c)(3) charity with over 6,000 members dedicated to promoting civil dialogue in America.

Ren considers philosophy and mentorship the chief joys of his life.