Celtic Spotlight: Senior Kingston Wells

This summer, Providence Catholic senior Kingston Wells took an important step toward his future in business by participating in a week-long residential summer program with the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Throughout the program, Kingston had the opportunity to engage with Gies faculty and staff while connecting with other students who share his interest in becoming future business leaders. A major part of the experience was developing and participating in a case study competition, giving Kingston a firsthand look at the type of collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving that are important in the business world.

For Kingston, the experience offered much more than an introduction to college-level business.

“Not only did this program provide me with important connections, it also gave me valuable insight on business in college and in our world,” Kingston said. “Gies is a very competitive program, and being given this opportunity only lit a bigger spark for my education and future in business.”

One lesson in particular stood out to him: the importance of understanding how individuals present themselves to the world.

“My biggest takeaway was that everyone is their own brand, and it is best to promote, train and protect that brand,” he said.

The program also gave Kingston an opportunity to explore an area that directly connects with his plans for the future. With aspirations of pursuing a career in the business industry, spending a week immersed in the field helped reinforce his interest and provided a glimpse of what his college experience could look like.

And while the academic and professional experiences were valuable, some of Kingston’s favorite moments came from simply experiencing campus life alongside his peers.

“I enjoyed spending time with my peers the most and getting a peek into adulthood,” he said.

As Kingston begins his senior year at Providence Catholic, he returns to campus with new connections, new experiences and an even greater excitement for what lies ahead.

Congratulations, Kingston, on taking advantage of an incredible opportunity to explore your interests and prepare for your future!