YDO KIDS | SUCCESS STORIES

Christian Grullon

10 Years with YDO

Involvement: Math Games, MIT STEM, YDO Summer Staff, YDO Intern

YDO has put me on the path to success ever since the 5th grade, almost 10 years ago. I first started with YDO Math games where I had the opportunity to learn and indulge in activities that expanded what I learned in the classroom. I then had the opportunity to attend a STEM summer program at MIT, as a member of the first cohort ever from Lawrence.

YDO not only has challenged me academically and mentally, but also inspired me in my career decision. In high school, through the YDO Focus Group, I was offered a chance to work at CUBE 3 Studio, an architecture firm in Lawrence. This opportunity grew into an internship over 4 years and gave me the motivation to pursue a degree in Construction Management.

I am now entering my Senior year at UMass Amherst, where I will be graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Built Construction and Technology in May 2017. Afterwards, I plan on attending Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston to receive a Master’s degree in Construction Management.

YDO has been the inspiration and motivation for me moving forward. I see that same ambition and thirst for knowledge in today’s YDO kids. My goal is to one day give back to YDO, so that the kids of today can have the same opportunities for success that I had. I am so grateful for YDO, the friendships, and the mentorship of Howard Sticklor these past 10 years.