By Jacob Ying
Freshman year can be a difficult transition, but Nick Stoll told me he’s loved it. “Like many people, my favorite part of freshman year is the freedom,” he said. “We get a lot more chances for new experiences.”
Of course, not everything has been easy, like learning how to balance academics, sports, and social life. “You quickly learn how to be responsible and how to manage your workload,” he said.
In his first high school semester, Nick has navigated difficult honors classes and challenging varsity sports.
One of those academic challenges has been Dr. Shelander’s Honors Biology class. “My favorite class this year is [Honors Biology]. Most people would choose their easiest class, but I like Honors Biology because it is equal parts challenging and interesting. I enjoy the hands-on and engaging class labs that teach me the material from a new angle,” he told me.
In the winter, Nick wrestles. Just like in Biology, Nick enjoys the worthwhile struggle of “getting better, and improving every day.” He also likes the camaraderie that comes from participating in a varsity sport. “I like that out on the mat, although it’s just you vs your opponent, you still have the whole team supporting you,” he stated. He also enjoys showing off his strength. “Mostly, I like pinning people,” he said.
This spring, Nick plans on playing soccer, which he has been playing “as long as I can remember.” Again, Nick values the team bonding arising from putting on a Lovett jersey. With soccer, he said, “You don’t do all the work. You have to rely on and trust your team to work together. You learn to perfect your part of the game and what you can do to help your teammates compete to do their best.”
When he isn’t pinning opponents on the mat or scoring hat tricks on the pitch, Nick enjoys various recreational activities. “I enjoy hanging out with friends and seeking out new experiences, making memories, and having good times,” he said. His adventurous side carries into his hobbies; he dreams of going skydiving and enjoys driving his go-kart.
Even at home, Nick is active…he has to corral his cats whom he describes as “very rambunctious”. And, as a member of the infamous BILLS MAFIA, Nick’s Sundays are filled with football watching and occasional table smashing.
