Congratulations class of 2019!

Springtime means graduation season at Building STEPS. This year we are proud to introduce Dante, our first United States Naval Academy graduate. Dante, like so many of our students, is the first in his family to earn a college degree. Since graduating from Mergenthaler Vo-Tech high school in 2015, he continues to remain in contact with Building STEPS and even helps to provide tours of the USNA to our high school students. Dante’s journey is inspiring and we are so pleased to share his achievements with you. Please read below to learn Dante’s highlights over the last four years.

Major: Electrical Engineering

Minor: none

Highlight from graduation: Receiving my first salute.

Footprints I am leaving on campus: During my time at the academy I’ve done a ton of community service that has impacted many young people lives all throughout the country. I’m leaving behind younger men and women who are better prepared for the future because of my teachings and inspiration.

Professor who most influenced who I have become: My wireless communications professor was the most influential professor I’ve had.

My mentor. For life.:  My two mentors that were assigned to me during my internship at Northrop Grumman are my mentors for life.

Best class ever: Electromagnetics

Took me totally by surprise: How much I’ve changed and grown over four years.

My favorite spot on campus: Memorial Hall. It is the place on the yard where everyone who has graduated and served with distinction is memorialized.

Real world experiences: I am serving as an Officer in the world’s greatest military.

My capstone: Light Fidelity a.k.a LiFi.

What it’s about: An innovative means of transmitting internet.

What it’s really about: Conventional internet routers use radio waves to transmit internet, however my capstone allows users to utilize visible light to transmit internet. Light Fidelity allows for faster data rates and increase levels of network security.

What’s next: I will be living in Japan, serving as an Ensign in the world’s greatest Navy.

Advice for incoming college freshmen: Never say you can’t do something. Believe that whatever you put your mind to you can do. Do not lower your standards or expectations for yourself because you feel you are not capable or properly equipped. Go become unapologetically great!