Nathaniel Wells
Name: Nathaniel Wells
Current Major: Art History & Curatorial Studies
Current Minor: French
Hometown: Sandy, UT
Graduation Date: August 2026
Instagram: @ngwells21
I'm a fourth-year student in the Honors program and have really enjoyed my time here. I'm studying medieval art and religion, and I think BYU gives a unique perspective in this particular field. Other than doing homework, I love to spend time in the kitchen baking and cooking, and I am an avid fan of international music and films. To learn more about Nathaniel, click here.
What sparked your interest in your major?
After my mission, I had a friend who worked at the MOA and encouraged me to apply for a summer job. Working there, I found out that not everyone had grown up going to museums or appreciating art and I needed to learn as much as I could so that I could share it with others. I've been working at the MOA for 2 1/2 years now, and have been super lucky to help install and take down all of the recent exhibits, work on research and paperwork, and spend hours of every day face-to-face with incredible works of art.
What's one item on your bucket list?
I have always wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail or the Camino de Santiago. Maybe both.
What's the best-kept secret at BYU? Why?
BYU has four museums on campus, which are full of some amazing resources for both study and personal enjoyment. The MOA is probably the best known, but the Museum of Peoples and Cultures, Bean Museum, and Paleontology Museum are all great places to spend time, study, and learn. There are also a ton of student job opportunities at each place, which is so impressive for a campus with so much happening.
What has been the most significant plot twist in your life?
I served my mission in Phoenix, Arizona, speaking French. Even though I had studied French for years, I was a linguistics major at the time and hoped and prayed that I could learn a different language. While serving as a missionary, I had opportunities to learn bits of Spanish, Romanian, Swahili, and Haitian Creole to teach people from all over the world, and it gave me an appreciation for cultures that I couldn't have found in any other circumstance.
Why did you decide to join the Honors Program?
Initially, I joined because both of my parents had graduated with the Honors Program and I wanted to see what it was all about. I stayed because it gave me opportunities to take truly engaging classes in subjects I wouldn't have normally considered.
What has been your favorite Honors experience?
I've loved the Unexpected Connections classes, particularly one I took from a chemistry professor and a Portuguese literature professor about sustainability in food production.
What is your next step in Honors?
I'm working on my thesis right now, with plans to defend in July. I'll be traveling to England for research on the art in Canterbury Cathedral right after this semester ends and working on finishing up thesis writing during spring semester.