High school junior takes the lead

“I don’t believe we’re born with the ability to lead,” stated Eli Lucas, Etna Green. “Leadership is something we develop. And sometimes it comes because it is a necessary part of a responsibility. My leadership ability has been pointed out to me recently and it’s been kind of a surprise.”

For example, Lucas’s music teacher was looking for a drum major. “I’m a junior at Triton High School and our school is pretty small. We had a drum major who aged out and the music director was looking for another. He wanted a person who gets along well with others and exhibits leadership qualities. I had been in choir, so he knew me well. He asked me to try out and I made it, even though I had never picked up a drum before in my life. I love being a drum major in the band.”

That is not the only instrument Lucas has picked up in the band. “I also play saxophone but am not very good at it yet. I’m working hard to master the instrument. I think it takes hard work and commitment to be a leader.”

Lucas is also co-captain of the junior league of the K County Roller Derby. “Skating in the roller derby is also something I had to work hard to conquer. My mother is the coach of the team and my brother and a few of my cousins are on the team. When I walked in the door for the first time, I felt scared and overwhelmed. But through years of hard work and perseverance, I’ve made many friends. And I feel I have somewhat of a leadership role in being co-captain.”

He has his eye on Purdue University’s School of Mechanical Engineering. “I’ve always liked taking things apart and putting them back together to find out how they are constructed. But I had no idea I’d enjoy mechanical engineering until I took a few classes at Triton. I love the classes and the teacher is great. I also love science.” Lucas would like to one day work at NASA in the space program.

Lucas shared, “I’d love to go up in a rocket into space. I’ve always wanted to see what’s out there.”

Referring to himself as a nerd, Lucas says that he is interested in fantasy novels and science fiction. “My dad and I have that in common. We like attending Fantasy Comic-Cons, where like-minded people gather to sell memorabilia or to see actors who show up.”

His favorite fantasy character comes from the book series “The Stormlight Archive.” “I think I’m drawn to Kaladin Stormblessed because he’s so human. He strives to protect others, no matter what. Some- times he fails miserably, but he always perseveres until he eventually succeeds.”

When asked what makes a good fantasy novel, Lucas remarked, “Creativity, good characters, world building and a cool magic system. Any good fantasy novel has to include magic.”

Lucas loves his family members. “I play video games with my 13-year-old brother Noah. But we also get into fights like any other brothers. Our family loves to go camping in the summer.”

This young man puts his heart into everything he does. “I like to be flexible. Whether I’m working on a project alone, with a partner, or in a group, I do my very best.”