Ava Mantha

Ava's History Making Moments

What are your central passion(s), and how do you plan to pursue them after graduation? How have your experiences at Flagler shaped these passions?

I’ve always been passionate about the environment and mathematics. After completing my double major in Data Science and Coastal Environmental Science, I will begin my Master’s in Data Science at Indiana University. My goal is to become a climate data scientist, using computational tools to help address environmental challenges.

Who or what inspired your passion in this area?

I started my freshman year as a Coastal Environmental Science major and quickly realized I missed being computationally challenged. During my first semester, I took Computing for Science, and my professor encouraged me to explore the emerging Data Science major. That moment ended up shaping my path, Flagler helped me discover a direction that combined both my interests and strengths.

Can you share a memorable story from your time at Flagler that always makes you smile? What made this moment special for you?

In Indiana the most interesting thing you’ll see during class is a squirrel out the window. I took a Marine Field Methods course where we went out weekly on Flagler’s boat to collect water quality data in the Matanzas estuary. Every trip was different. Some days we’d spot dolphins or manatees, and there was something surreal about being in class with dolphins surfacing nearby. That might be a normal experience for locals, but for a Midwesterner like me, it felt pretty close to magic.

Which academic resources, experiences, or mentors at Flagler were most valuable to you, and how did they contribute to your success?

Flagler’s size made it possible to build close relationships with professors throughout my academic journey. Dr. Carrie Grant supported me significantly through coursework and academic planning, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her guidance. I also had the opportunity to conduct research with Professor Barbara Blonder, who serves as St. Augustine’s Vice Mayor, on local bat biodiversity. She introduced me to the research world and helped me build valuable professional connections.

What advice or lesson would you give to your freshman year self about the college experience?

Take things one step at a time and don’t get ahead of yourself. Thinking big and setting ambitious goals matters, but it can only take you so far if you’re overwhelmed in the moment. Your best doesn’t have to be perfect. Things tend to fall into place as you let them.

In the Flagler spirit, how do you hope to make history after graduation?

I hope to become a climate data scientist using computational methods to help address environmental challenges. In the Fall, I will begin my Master of Science in Data Science at Indiana University.