First Semester Reflection

A lot has happened this first semester since arriving in late August. From completing requirements in STEM to my experiences outside of the classroom, I have changed immensely since the day I moved into Ohio State University. From my STEM requirements I have learned about the history of Bollywood and its connection to Indian history, as well as Iran’s modern history and the changes happening in the country. I thought I was a well cultured person before coming to Ohio State University but going to diversity events showed me that I still had a lot to learn. Along with the diversity events I have attended, I have gone to STEM related events that talk about bioengineering and how to network. The bioengineering was especially interesting to me and may have helped me better decide what career I want to pursue in STEM. Along with the STEM related events are my service events. For my service events, I made ACT videos to help high schoolers who are getting ready to take the ACT. I found the process of making videos explaining mathematical concepts to actually be enjoyable! Who knows, maybe I would be a good teacher too! Outside of STEM, I have become more adventurous and outgoing. Prior to coming to college, I was very timid but now I find myself making friends and talking to people I meet left and right. Along with that I have done things I would never dream of doing in high school, like rushing the field after the Ohio State versus Michigan game.

About Me

Hello, my name is Manuel Bautista. My parents are from the Dominican Republic and I was raised near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I am interested in STEM as both of my parents are doctors, exposing me to the mathematical and scientific side of life. Also, I find it interesting how much we, as a species, can create using numbers and elements. From medicine to computer sciences, from physics to chem, math and science are involved. What has made me passionate about STEM is the ability to better the lives of those around me through it. Be it through medical procedures or through computers, it all makes life easier and better. I wanted to be a STEM Scholar so that I can experience different fields within STEM to see what might be right for me, if I follow the route of my parents and become a doctor or carve a new path for myself.

My major currently is health sciences with a pre-med track and am still not sure what to minor in. As of now I have shadowed a cardiologist, a pulmonologist, an emergency room physician, an orthopedic surgeon, a plastic surgeon, and a optometrist while in the Dominican Republic and intend to gain a better understanding of what profession is right for me by shadowing and working with other doctors and professionals.

About Me

[Your “About Me” is a brief biographical statement that might include your intended major, your academic interests, your goals, as well as the things that make you unique.  Definitely include a picture! Also, remember that you can always update this post at any point. For more guidance on using your ePortfolio, including questions and prompts that will help you get started, please visit the Honors & Scholars ePortfolio course in Carmen. To get answers to specific questions, please email eportfolio@osu.edu. Delete these instructions and add your own post.]