Oak Ridge senior Nathan Williams is in his first year at the school, as his family moved here from Las Vegas during the summer. Williams, 17, previously attended Centennial High School and while he misses his friends, he is enjoying life in El Dorado Hills. Here are some more facts about him.

What is the biggest difference (for teenagers) between Las Vegas and Oak Ridge?

The schools are newer and built more like prisons in Las Vegas, very few to no windows. There are more racial problems and gangs in Vegas. Oak Ridge is more serious about their sports, academics and offer more opportunities.

What do you miss about your old school?

My friends.

What do you like most about being at Oak Ridge High?

The openess of the campus, spirit rallies and athletics.

How do you like being a member of the cross country team?

I love it. I’m so excited and blessed to have this opportunity to be on such a great team.

How many years have you been a runner?

3 1/2 years.

During the summer, how many miles do you run a week?

60 to 80 miles.

Which do you prefer, cross country or track and field and why?

I like cross country because on a track, I feel like a hamster. You have to pace yourself in cross. You actually have scenery. I love the shorter distances in track like the 400, 800, 1 mile, 4x400, and 4x800 mainly because you can have a good kick and all your friends and family are sitting in the stands. I don’t like the two-mile in track because you get bored running around the track eight times.

Is there anything you do before every race?

Not before every race but every once in a while Starbucks and a donut. Not your typical champ food but it works for me.

What are your individual goals for the season?

I already have a state championship ring in Nevada so I might as well go for a state championship in California.

Who is your favorite teacher at Oak Ridge and why?

Mrs. Weston. She’s a funny and challenging teacher; a very interesting person.

What was your favorite Halloween costume growing up?

My firefighter costume when I was five.

Besides running, what other hobbies do you have or what do you like to do in your spare time?

Cycling, NASCAR, listening to music, going to theme parks and driving.

When you’re out for a run, what are you thinking about?

Mainly just messing around in general. When I’m racing I love the adrenaline rush.