Cristian Mantilla
  • Biology
  • Class of 2017
  • Bayamon, PR

Cristian Mantilla Gets Leg Up on STEM Academic Career at University of Dayton

2013 Aug 7

Cristian Mantilla of Bayamon, PR, joined more than two dozen incoming minority students from around the nation and Puerto Rico for a headstart on their STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers on the University of Dayton's campus.

Mantilla completed the University's Minority STEM Summer Bridge Program -- a free weeklong residential program -- that included courses in calculus, chemistry and physics taught by University faculty. The week also featured sessions on learning styles; orientation to college life and campus support services; activities to build group cohesiveness; and opportunities for interaction with the wider campus community. During one session, the students brainstormed designs and made prosthetic legs.

The week culminated with a dinner with STEM professionals, which was keynoted by Huntley Myrie, president of Nexcelle, a joint venture of GE's Middle River Aircraft Systems and the Safran group's Aircelle.

Support from the Virginia W. Kettering Foundation, the School of Engineering and the College of Arts and Sciences funds the program, now in its seventh year.

The University of Dayton is a top-tier national, Catholic, research university and Ohio's largest private university. Founded by the Society of Mary (the Marianists), the University of Dayton educates students for excellence in scholarship and practical wisdom, grounded in faith and reason, to build community and partner for the common good.