Stevenson University’s Patrick Cristaldi was a novice in the sport of cross country, picking up the passion for distance running as a freshman in college.  Now in his junior season, Cristaldi was the Mustangs’ top runner in five races and hopes to improve his personal finish (33^rd) and team’s placement in the final standings (7^th) at the 2011 CAC Championships, to be held Saturday (10/29) at John Rudy Park, just outside York, Pa.  INTRODUCING … Mustang standout Patrick Cristaldi.

Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play?  I did not run in high school. I played varsity basketball. I decided to run cross country my first year in college and fell in love with it.

What is your favorite spot on campus?  I like the gym on the Greenspring Campus because nobody ever goes to that one so I can get a nice quiet workout in.

Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit?  Hilton Head, S.C., is my favorite place to visit because it is so simple and beautiful.

Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)?  I am a member of the Howard County Striders running group.

Briefly describe the most memorable experience during your collegiate athletic career.  My most memorable experience was probably my first race ever my freshmen year. I went out extremely fast in the first mile and quickly learned that pacing is extremely important in cross country.

What is the most important societal issue facing college students?  The most important issue is probably the economy because students are really struggling to pay tuition - especially at private schools like Stevenson.

If you could change any one item in the world (in your personal life, school, community, amateur or professional sports, national/international issue, etc.), what would it be, why, and how would you do it?  I would change the education system and take away standardized testing. I am an education major and I believe that standardized tests are hurting students more than they are helping.  The students only learn how to take a test, but do not learn how to survive in the real world.

What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline?  I am an Elementary Education major. I have learned that learning how to manage a classroom is the most important. If you can discipline your students and utilize time, you will be successful.

Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life?  The most influential person in my life was my middle school basketball coach (Terry Scott). He taught me to always do my best and having a positive attitude goes a long way.

What is your favorite form of entertainment?  My favorite form of entertainment is music. It is the most beautiful form of art and really gets me pumped up.

What is your favorite source of information (TV, book, magazine, website, friends in dining hall, etc.)?   My favorite source of information is the internet - websites. You can go on and find out anything you want to know about any topic in the world.

If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be?   Respect the people around you and learn to love and enjoy life.

Outside of the Capital Athletic Conference, who or what is your favorite sports person or team?  My favorite team is the University of Maryland Terps mens basketball. I grew up watching and supporting them.

Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with?    
Bob Marley-To get his views on life and peace.
Jimi Hendrix- To learn how he wrote the music that he did.
Kobe Bryant- To ask him if he wants to play one on one for a few million dollars.