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Name: Burke Nelson
Hometown: Lena, WI
School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Major: Sociology
MS Year: MS II
Burke Nelson is a sophomore studying sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and currently an MSII in the Badger Battalion. Prior to coming to the UW, CDT Nelson lived in and attended grade school in Waterford, WI. After his parents divorced, CDT Nelson moved to Lena, WI where he graduated high school and where his family currently resides. CDT Nelson joined Army ROTC after enlisting in the U.S. Army Reserves as a Combat Engineer split option soldier and spending a year with the 428th Engineer Company. CDT Nelson realized his potential as a military leader when he conducted a training program that prepared future soldiers for Basic Training and received the Army Achievement Medal for his efforts. "I decided that if I had the means and the ability to that I should become and officer." And with this, CDT Nelson accepted a four-year scholarship with the Badger Battalion.
Now a sophomore in college, CDT Nelson claims that he's settled into the college rhythm and is now more able to balance school, ROTC and play. And as an MSII in the Badger Battalion, CDT Nelson has also been able to participate in more activities than he did as an MSI and has even gotten a taste of leadership by serving as a team leader. "I feel that the ROTC experience thus far has been very beneficial in my personal development. Before I had a lot of technical knowledge down and was accustomed to following orders. With ROTC I am learning how to become more comfortable at being a leader." When asked what his most memorable experience with the Badger Battalion has been, CDT Nelson states that meeting his closest friends within the program, participating in Homecoming activities and presenting the colors with the Color Guard in Camp Randall all stick out in his mind. CDT Nelson's advice for incoming cadets is study hard for classes, but to also allow yourself some time for fun. "I work hard during the week so I can take some time to relax on the weekends. Also, soak up information learned in ROTC and do everything full-speed. Not paying attention or trying will hurt you down the road and you are cheating yourself." CDT Nelson is a credit to his advice, working hard and making the most of his time in ROTC by participating in Ranger Challenge, the Bataan Memorial Death March team and Color Guard (which he will serve as co-commander of next year).
When not in uniform or studying hard, CDT Nelson enjoys video games, "nerding it up", playing the bass guitar, and being outdoors, specifically camping.
Fun fact about CDT Nelson: CDT Nelson has been playing some sort of instrument since he was 7-years old, including the piano, tuba and bass guitar.