by: Chloe Wilson

Culture Editor

Freshman Caliana Nelson has quickly immersed herself in numerous Los Gatos High School activities, ranging from sports to instruments. Whether she is rushing on the football field or practicing tunes on her trumpet, Nelson is sure to go all in. 

In the short time she has been at LGHS, she has already found a healthy balance between school and extracurricular activities. Nelson explained, “I just find the little spots of time that I can study and do homework.” Nelson is taking various classes, including Geometry, Spanish, Band, Health and Fitness, Biology, and English. Her favorite class so far this school year has been Spanish because of its creative assignments. Nelson is also involved in several school clubs, such as the Self-Care Club and the Psychology Club, and is a member of the school band. 

In terms of her athletic talents, Nelson has many.  Shevwas one of the few freshman players on the Varsity Flag Football team and found numerous ways to connect with upper and underclassmen. Nelson described her time on varsity as “a really good experience, getting to play with much more advanced players. I connected with everyone by just making jokes and laughing together.” Despite making varsity, flag football was a brand new sport for Nelson, as she pointed out: “At first, it was really scary. I remember the first practice I did not want to go to, but my mom was the one who convinced me.” Taking on an unfamiliar sport was clearly an important decision for Nelson that paid off, as she and the team achieved significant success during the season. One of her favorite memories during the games, she shared, was “when I made the last defensive play of the quarterfinals. It was just so fun to have my whole team around me.” 

Nelson also plays for the school’s JV soccer team. She is looking forward to “bonding with my team, it should be really fun.” She competes in club soccer for Almaden Fútbol Club. When comparing her club team to her school team, Nelson said, “School soccer, so far, seems like there is a lot less pressure and I am just excited to play.” Nelson’s position of striker for both soccer teams required her to stay close to the opponent’s goal and score. 

Nelson has also started to make her mark socially at LGHS, not only bonding with teammates but also, as she shared, “spend[ing] time with friends, just by talking, or maybe going somewhere to hang out.”

Nelson’s ambition, mindset, and kindness have helped her navigate her first year at LGHS, and she has had an eventful and successful start to her high school path. Nelson’s commitment to trying new things while also continuing with old hobbies showcases her spirit and drive. Watch out for Nelson as she continues to succeed in school, sports, and band.