Student Spotlight

Name: Ethan Rineer

Age: 18

Grade: 12th

Hometown, State: Lititz, Pennsylvania

Member Mu Eta Sigma Since: 2025

I enjoy math because: I see math as a language to better understand our world. I have been introduced to math and geometry since I was a child. Building with LEGO has taught me proportions, ratios, and balance. I have had an appreciation for math ever since that time.  As I grew up, I started using math in my sketches of buildings. I enjoy how I can use math to line things up perfectly. I am somewhat of a perfectionist, and using math makes me feel like I am in control and able to put out my best work.

I anticipate using math in my future: I plan to use math as a tool to achieve my dream of becoming an architect. I will work side by side with formulas and ratios to create sustainable buildings for the future. I see myself using math
in historical preservation, the field I strive to work in, and to find the perfect design to keep ancient architecture alive for years to come.

I have been involved in my community through the following service projects:

• Volunteer for Community Dinner and teen Dungeons & Dragons program at my local library

• Volunteer creator and organizer for the monthly elementary LEGO program

• Volunteer as a camp counselor at a church camp retreat

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My favorite project was: Volunteering as a camp counselor at a church camp retreat, because when I was younger, I used to be a camper at the exact same camp retreat. I stood in their shoes and had fun as they did. Since I’m older, I can now give back through volunteering to the camp that gave me so many memories.

I have set the following goals for myself for the next:

•  1 year: I want to thrive in college and find my place in the city

• 5 years: I will be wrapping up my undergraduate degree in architecture 
  and gaining my license

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My parents have inspired me to consider: Being a good role model and leading by example. I’ve been taught to make good choices.

My favorite subject in school has been: Geometry

My favorite extra-curricular activity has been: Symphonic orchestra

The most challenging thing I have ever experienced is: Becoming a better musician. I spent years in a youth symphony orchestra and have auditioned countless times for a position in a higher-level group. In my senior year, I have achieved my goal of playing for Allegretto, a very competitive and demanding group of talented musicians. It took years of practicing, building my skills, and understanding music before I was offered an opportunity to play.
 

My greatest accomplishment to date has been: Being accepted into my dream college and additionally being admitted into their honors program and summer independent research program.