Ethan Nelson

Class of 2026

When you think of Wakefield, what three words come to mind first?

Opportunity, Individual-Action, Personal-Growth

What song reminds you of high school?

"Men At Work" by Down Under

Spartan or Athenian?

Athenian

What are you involved in at Wakefield?

Captain of soccer, swim, and tennis; Member of Interact, Community Council, Improv Club

What is your favorite activity and why?

My favorite activity is playing sports at Wakefield because, in general, sports are fun, and the level of competition we play against isn't selective, so anyone can participate (I don't play tennis or soccer outside of school, yet I am top of the conference for both). It's also a great way to meet new people at the school.

What’s your favorite place on campus and why?

My favorite place is the gym because there are a variety of activities to do, and I go there all the time. There isn't a day that I can't see myself going to the gym, because for the six years I have spent at Wakefield, I have gone there nearly every day.

Who is your favorite teacher and why?

I really like Mr. Martin because his lessons exposed me to brilliance in the liberal arts, altering my perspective on the literary field forever. Had he not maintained his exhilarating enthusiasm, my perspective on literature as a whole may have remained forever bleak.

What is your favorite thing about Wakefield?

I really do appreciate the close-knit style of teaching. Most of my classes average about 5 people, so I often find myself working with others to ensure our continued success. I am comforted that my friends boosted me, and that I was able to help out in some way to the people around me.

Describe an experience you’ve had at Wakefield that you could not have had anywhere else.

Being able to play varsity soccer for 5 years - competing in state tournaments, making the state finals, winning the GPAC conference, being an all-state player, and starting as an 8th grader - is something impossible to do had I stayed on the public-school route.

What are some ways you’ve grown since you first came to Wakefield?

When I first entered Wakefield, I was reserved, taciturn about my abilities and uncertain about who I wanted to become. Now, I have matured and my further dreams in life of becoming an electrical engineer are abundantly clear.

What is your dream job?

To be an electrical engineer working on nanotechnology.

Where is your journey taking you next?

I'm going to the University of Illinois, majoring in electrical engineering.

What will you miss most about Wakefield?

The great people at Wakefield are what make the school so special. I am so appreciative of the welcoming people I encountered in the six years I have spent here, and I feel as though I am losing a part of myself now that I am leaving.

Wishing Ethan all the best as he takes his leadership, competitive spirit, and passion for growth to the University of Illinois and beyond, pursuing his dream of advancing the future of nanotechnology through electrical engineering!