The first step: Trenton Wells

For Trenton Wells, the next chapter begins nearly 2,500 miles from where his Ohio State story began.

This summer, Trenton moved to Beaverton, Oregon, to begin his career as a financial analyst at Nike. The cross-country move marked a significant transition from four years of classes, leadership opportunities, campus events and friendships, to stepping into his first full-time role and building a life in a new city.

But Trenton says he’s prepared for the leap.

“Most importantly, Ohio State taught me that growth comes from saying yes to new experiences and embracing the unknown,” says the Columbus native. “That mindset has given me the confidence to move across the country, begin my career and approach this next chapter with excitement rather than uncertainty.”

As a finance student, Trenton pursued leadership opportunities, worked with Ohio State football recruiting and traveled to Chicago, New York and New Jersey to connect with prospective students. Internships with the New York Yankees and Nike gave him opportunities to apply what he was learning while helping him discover the career he wanted to pursue.

By the time he walked across the stage at commencement, Trenton had more than a degree in business administration. He had a growing sense of who he was and the confidence to keep figuring out who he could become.

Now, he even thinks beyond his career. He wants to build a community through work, church and DJing while exploring the Pacific Northwest, finding a balance between professional ambition and what brings him joy. A DJ course he took at Ohio State even led to an unexpected milestone, performing at a music festival this summer.

His first year at Nike, Trenton says, will be about, “learning, asking thoughtful questions and building a strong foundation that will set me up for long-term success.”

The transition brings challenges. But he is approaching them with the same curiosity, humility and willingness to embrace opportunity that defined his time at Ohio State.

He is not leaving Ohio State with everything figured out. He is leaving with something more valuable: the confidence to say yes to what comes next.