Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Riverstone Class of 2021

Meet the Seniors

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

An Introduction and Welcome from Jami Whitmer, High School Director

Dear Riverstone community: I am pleased to welcome you to this year’s edition of Meet the Seniors. You will get to learn more about the amazing Class of 2021, where our seniors talk about their experiences at Riverstone and their journeys to come.

The Class of 2021 has persevered through these past 18 months through challenges we could never have anticipated. I am so proud of how they met the moment: these students continued to accomplish great things and grow as people despite the disruptions to their personal lives. Having the opportunity to bring these students back to campus for in-person instruction this year was a highlight, for which I am grateful.

Several of our seniors have been with us for their whole academic journey–Spencer, Charlie D., Emory, Alyson, Louisa, Ethan, Nick, Owen, and Taavi all joined us in Kindergarten. Others, like Julia, Annika, and Nola, have only been part of the Riverstone community for one year. No matter when our students joined us along their educational journey, we are honored to have been part of it.

Undoubtedly, the Class of 2021 will go on to do amazing things and live purposeful lives. They have rich and varied interests and plans–please read more in the following pages.

Jami Whitmer

Senior portraits photographed by Heather Johnson Webster Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

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Layla B. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? Reed College in Portland, OR How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5 What is the title of your Extended Essay? 4 Your Eyez Only by J. ColeAn Anti-Racism Manifesto.

What was your most important Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Teaching sexual education to ninth graders at SAGE International School with Planned Parenthood.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My beliefs constantly being challenged by my teachers and the students around me due to the wide range of perspectives and backgrounds everyone brings with them.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Going on hikes during DT [Design Technology] with Jim Harper in the mornings, seeing [former teacher] Shadrach at my first big speech at the Women's March, giving tarot readings to everyone at school during flex time.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know how to be a critical thinker and know how to be inquisitive. Riverstone taught me to always question everything and think outside of the box, something that will be very helpful at Reed!

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? You don't need to be perfect. You just need to try, and be receptive to feedback! And become friends with your teachers, they're there to help you.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Enlightening, laborious, eye-opening.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Spencer B. Boise, Idaho Which college/university will you attend after graduation? DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida for a post-graduate year to play basketball.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Artistic Value of the Collection of Work from Kanye West.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Trying to find value in subjects that I didn’t see immediate rewards from.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Playing [basketball] in the Idaho Center with the boys [team], and Chick-fil-A practice.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I was able to learn what I value with regard to where I spend my time.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) Once you start moving in love, the universe will assist you. 2.) The now is the greatest moment of our lives, and it keeps getting better.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Frustrating, eye-opening, fostering.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Paige B. Boise, Idaho

Which university will you attend after graduation? Oregon State University, School of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Studies How many years have you been at Riverstone? 10 What is the title of your Extended Essay? Exploring the Themes of Love and Nonviolence in the Graphic Novel March, by John Lewis.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? My most meaningful CAS experience is planting a community garden.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My most personal challenge has definitely been balancing my class work with my extracurricular activities. I was hard for me to not compare myself to my classmates, but by understanding that I have strengths in other areas than my classmates, I was able to play to my strengths and flourish within my classes and academics.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? One of my favorite memories from my journey at Riverstone has to be the outdoor trips, more specifically Rogue River [in Grade 10]. Our Rogue River trip was full of memories that were created with my lovely friends and classmates. I will forever be grateful for this experience and for the people who made it so fun.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Although I feel prepared for the next part of my journey, I am not quite ready to leave this one behind. Everything I love about Riverstone is because of the people. I have had the most amazing time growing up and learning beside and from people who I truly care about, and who care about me. These friendships and relationships are something I will cherish for a lifetime. I feel prepared for this next chapter because of the teachers at Riverstone who have helped me understand the importance of being my own advocate, to be open minded, to have confidence and to trust my voice.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) To get the full experience out of Riverstone, you need to be willing to try everything, most importantly participating in the outdoor trips. These trips are essential to understanding yourself and your classmates. 2.) We are each unique individuals, do not waste time comparing yourself to your classmates.

Everyone has different strengths, appreciate them.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Challenging. Supportive, Irreplaceable.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Annika C. Boise, Idaho Which college will you attend after graduation? The College of Idaho in Caldwell, Idaho How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1 What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone?

“Making new friends and attending my senior year during COVID” What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Meeting new people, and taking new classes.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have learned how to take care of my self better.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Always ask friends or teachers if you need help, and step out of your comfort zone in school projects.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? New, fun, grateful.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Andrea C. Valencia, Spain Which university will you attend after graduation? University of South Dakota in Vermillion.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1 What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Adapting to the IB. What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rock climbing and questioning everything in TOK [Theory of Knowledge].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have gained efficiency in order to handle a great workload and I am a better time manager.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Know when it’s time for work, and when it’s time for fun.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Enriching, unique and enjoyable.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Walker C. Wilton, Connecticut Which college/university will you attend after graduation?

Middlebury College in Vermont.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 7 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To What Extent Can the Russian Annexation of Crimea Be Justified by the Ideology of Offensive Realism?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Big Brothers Big Sisters.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The Personal Project [Middle Years Programme culmination project].

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rouge River Wilderness backpacking trip [in Grade 10].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Making friends and being confident with new people and new places.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Write the EE [Extended Essay] about a topic that genuinely interests you. And don't leave campus for lunch–you’ll go broke.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Too much procrastination.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Charlie D. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Design of the Air Jordan 1, 3, 11, and 15.

What was your most meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Raising the money for and designing athletic plaques and banners for the school.

What have your personal challenges been at Riverstone? The EE was a challenge for me since it was such a long essay and I'm not the best writer, but I worked hard on it and finished it on time.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The Rogue River Wilderness trip [in Grade 10], and going to the basketball state championship during senior year.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know I can handle a large workload which will be helpful in college.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don't Procrastinate. Find an extracurricular that you enjoy.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Difficult, exciting, adventurous.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Maxwell Cole Dina D. Thailand Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Georgia in Athens.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3 What is the title of your Extended Essay? An analysis of women’s rights through The Handmaid's Tale novel.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Swim team.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Living in a dorm and finishing the IB. What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Meeting new friends and winter trip.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I learn how to make a good quality work in a short amount of time.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don't procrastinate. Don’t choose subjects because of the teacher.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Joyful, depressed, fun.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Emory G. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? Colgate University in Hamilton, New York.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Influence of The Bhagavad Gita's Teachings on Jivamukti Yoga.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Volunteering for the St. Lukes YEAH obesity program was one of my most meaningful CAS experiences, as I got to work with kids and teach them about how to live healthier lifestyles.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Staying on top of all of my school work for all of my classes while playing sports or doing other activities outside of school.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rouge River Wilderness Trip [in Grade 10].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm a better writer, and I know how to handle a heavy workload.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Appreciate your teachers, stay on top of your workload.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Memorable, challenging, tight-knit.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Gavin G. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? Dodge College at Chapman University in Orange, California as a President's Scholar and varsity team swimmer.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 7.5 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Melody of Mario: Leitmotif in Super Mario Bros.

What was your most meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? My time with both club and high school swimming.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Finding a balance between school, swimming, strength training, social, and personal life.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Dropping Nathan into the river on the Weiser River trip [in Grade 7] and presenting my personal project.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have learned time management skills, to be wellrounded, and adaptable to a changing world.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Never stay up past midnight and communicate to your teachers, especially if you are struggling.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Rigorous, engaging, fulfilling.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Louisa G. Boise, Idaho Which college will you attend after graduation? Yale-NUS College in Singapore in 2022, after a gap year.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Main Factors Contributing to the Chinese Communist Party’s Ban on Falun Gong.

What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? I tried nordic skiing with the Bogus Basic Nordic team and got to deepen my friendships and competency at winter sports.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Making the mistake of thinking I had to do things on my own was challenging until realizing that my classmates are my most valuable resource when I am struggling in a subject or need moral support.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Learning how to play Egyptian Rat Slap in Grand Gulch [Utah, during the Grade 9 Spring Trip].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know that I have a community here that I can always call on.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1) keep list of assignment ideas for the EE so you can do an EE you like, 2) Don’t focus too much on other people’s opinions and criticism of your essays because in the end, you aren’t trying to see if your mom or your counselor are a good fit.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Kooky, papaya, slenderman.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Alyson G. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent has Taylor Swift’s use of language and storytelling in her songwriting stemmed from her influences and influenced other songwriters in the music industry today?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? A service trip to South Africa for two weeks where we taught young girls about the menstrual cycle, provided supplies, delivered food to small communities, and fit young kids with shoes.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Outdoor trips have always been a challenge for me, especially backpacking, because I am not super athletic or interested in camping. I usually ended up having a good time when pushing myself out of my comfort zone.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? First, I loved being a part of a band in 8-10th grade with Louisa, Faye, and Rachel. It helped me learn to play in a group, and I loved our public performances. Second, I liked being a part of the Variety Show each year I participated. It played a huge role in making me comfortable in front of an audience and more confident with my music.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I think that I gained a lot from Mr. Brown's music class and participating in ensembles. I learned to push myself out of my musical comfort zone when performing and composing, which will be so helpful as I go to study songwriting at Belmont University.

What are some pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? It is important to take advantage of the accessibility to the teachers and communicate about any challenges or stress.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Long, formative, challenging.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Ben H. Boise, Idaho Which college will you attend after graduation? Gap year, then Colorado College in Colorado Springs.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 10 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent does the controversy in the Boundary Water Canoe Area illustrate a larger dispute regarding the relationship between public lands and governments?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? I planned and went on a trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area [in Duluth, Minnesota] with my brother and one of my friends and took some cool pictures and videos.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The most challenging part of my Riverstone experience was finding the internal motivation to maximize my effort levels on every assignment, project, and test.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Stargazing on the Rouge River Wilderness backpacking trip [in Grade 10]. Also our boys basketball State Championship run.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Riverstone allowed me to truly be who I am, and thus I was able to become in touch with the person I am as well as the person that I want to be.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Trust your teachers and ask for help. Countless times I was behind in a certain subject or project but after talking to my teachers, everything always seemed to work out.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Wilderness, laughter, friendships.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Ethan H. Boise, Idaho What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Spending a good portion of my summers volunteering at the zoo in various capacities.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My largest personal challenge at Riverstone has been deciding what moments it is appropriate to be responsible or irresponsible. Similarly, learning how to stop complaining to the administration whenever I encountered a problem helped me develop my own problemsolving skills.

What is one of your favorite memories of your journey at Riverstone? There are two distinct memories I have at Riverstone, and to an outsider of my head they could be declared as entirely irrelevant to my greatest experience, but to me, they make it up. The first was choosing chemistry as my DP subject as Mrs. Schmutzler has been a wondrous teacher who has cultivated the foundations of my learning for years to come. The second was getting in a scuffle with Charlie D. over a volleyball match (I won by the way). Each piece has factored into my decision of who I want to be and become.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.

Grades do not matter as much as one might suspect. This is because the point of education is not to beat yourself up over the difference between a 5 and a 6. No, it is to recognize that difference continually even after you have experienced what I would call the click. There is a certain mentality that was taught to me by some crazy new student that rhymed with 'hull pout,' where to make things happen you can't focus on the circumstance, but rather to take the reins of what is in your control and find a way to change what isn't.

Which university will you attend after graduation? Walk-On PG at Barretts, The Honors College at Arizona State University in Tempe.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? An Analysis of the Impact of Oil and Gas Development on Greater Sage Grouse Conservation and U.S. Energy Independence.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?

1.) Instead of being quick to judge a teacher, attempt to explore a more active relationship with them where you support the teacher as much as the teacher supports you. Teachers are more than allies at RIS, they are our fellows in our journeys as well. 2.)

Remember that this is high school, so make it the peak of your life, that's usually a good thing right? To reiterate, don't feel stressed about having to relive your parents crazy high school stories. Stomp out your own path and live enjoyment without needless expectations.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Sehnsucht, red, and.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Honggeol K. Paju, Korea Which university will you attend after graduation? Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent can the evolutionary history of the human brain explain the wide adoption of religion in human societies?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Making music with Ethan H. What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Not having my family around me.

What is one of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Any outdoor trip.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know more about myself.

What are some pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Communicate with your teachers, don't take anything for granted.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Opportunity, discovery, growth.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Ruchir K. Cupertino, California Which college/university will you attend after graduation? Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2 What is the title of your Extended Essay? What Effect do Varying Temperatures of Recrystallization have on the Purity of Acetylsalicylic Acid as Measured by the Melting Point of Synthesized as well as Commercially Purchased Aspirin and Confirmed by Acid-Base Titration?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Volunteering at St. Luke’s Hospital.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Writing my Extended Essay [EE].

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Writing my Math IA [Internal Assessment].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I’m better at doing larger assignments (like the EE or the IAs).

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Stay focused and work hard. Have fun learning.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Engaging, challenging, fulfilling.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

DongGun (Dong) L. Yongin City, South Korea Which college will you attend after graduation? University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in Minneapolis.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3 What is the title of your Extended Essay? Surface area affecting the chemical reaction rate and thermal change of Meal Ready to Eat (MRE).

What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience?

Robotics.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Taking virtual class and needing to focus and work by myself.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Robotics, Grand Gulch [Utah trip, Grade 9].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am better in time management and got to know myself even more.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do not procrastinate, and if you focus in class, you are 99% likely to get through.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Challenging, efforts, confusion.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Nick L. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? The Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut for one year, then college.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? How would the destruction of the four Snake River dams benefit the salmon restoration process and would the benefit be greater than the economic stress that would be a result of it?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? High School soccer.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The most difficult challenge I had to overcome was when the school stopped doing taco Tuesday and french toast Friday's for hot lunch... it was truly heartbreaking.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? 1.) Playing basketball with my best friends and having the opportunity to compete for a state championship [title]. 2.)

The Rogue River backpacking trip [in Grade 10].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I think having the opportunity to write multiple IAs [Internal Assessments] and the EE [Extended Essay] with the support of my teachers was extremely valuable. I was able to learn my mistakes so I am better prepared when writing essays in college.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Play every sport possible for Riverstone and NEVER miss an outdoor trip.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Foundation, family, mosh-pit.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Owen M. Boise, Idaho Which college/university will you attend after graduation? Gap year, then Colorado College in Colorado Springs.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent can Buddhist ideologies and values justify and elucidate the existence and act of violence?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? My CAS project which allowed me to plan and execute a two-week, mostly off-trail, backpacking trip on the Beartooth Plateau in Montana.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Balancing a healthy and active lifestyle outside of school with academic achievement.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Dietrich, Idaho basketball tournament, Basketball state championship, Rogue River trip [in Grade 10].

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm a much more competent and confident writer because of Riverstone and can easily navigate large workloads.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) Go on the outdoor trips, they're good ways to meet new people at Riverstone and spend time in the outdoors. 2.)

Understand that your mental health and general happiness take priority over academic success.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Formative, challenging, rewarding.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Nathan M. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? University of New Hampshire in Durham.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 10 What is the title of your Extended Essay? “Symbiotic Sustainability: an Analysis of Cycling Infrastructure and its Implementation in Ada County, Idaho.”

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Planting lettuce in Harper’s Garden.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My personal challenges have been trying things that were outside of my comfort zone, such as composing electronic music, dissecting pig eyes in freshman physics class, working on calculus in math, etc...

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Some of my favorite Riverstone memories include going on my Grand Gulch trip, where we hiked through a desert canyon in Southern Utah for 6 days. I also enjoyed going to robotics competitions for FTC (First Tech Challenge).

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have learned to challenge myself to do things that I previously think I couldn't do, I have learned to manage time and handle a serious workload, and I have also learned how to write really meaningfully and effectively in many different forms (poetry, essays, etc.).

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? I would advise students to communicate with your teachers about anything! they are amazing and will always be there for you. I would also advise students to study topics that they truly enjoy for their Personal Project, EE, CAS, and so on. It makes the process incredibly enjoyable and allows you to discover new passions that will fuel your ability to discover what you want to study later.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Enriching, fast-paced, enjoyable.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Nola M. Seattle, Washington Which college/university will you attend after graduation? University of Twente in the Netherlands.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1 What is the title of your Extended Essay? An Exploration into The Causes of The Lack of Sovereignty in Venezuela.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? I raised funds by selling bracelets and used the money to buy COVID-relief supplies for the refugee camps in Jordan. It was a challenging experience in regards to organizing it.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The biggest challenge would be transferring into Riverstone half way through the DP. There were some content gaps and there were things I hadn't done yet that I needed to so it was a steep learning curve.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? A highlight would have to have been the snow day that was planned for seniors. I had a lot of fun snowboarding and it was cool because I hadn't been able to go snowboarding for a while.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am so much better at managing my anxiety and have gained a lot of confidence. That makes it a lot easier to complete and turn in work.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) If you procrastinate, make sure you have the wisdom, intelligence, and skill to back it up. Procrastinating makes doing work harder, so make sure that if you do it that you can actually pull off whatever you're doing to a degree that you're proud of. Don't procrastinate if you need more time than the night before. 2.) Talk to your teachers. If they know what's going on then they can either help you before the deadline or extend past it. If you send them drafts of work or ask questions about what to do, they'll understand where you're coming from and your grade won't just emerge from an abyss.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Feverish, welcoming, and understanding.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Rose M.

Winnetka, Illinois

Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 7 What is the title of your Extended Essay? How Access to Sanitation Facilities Impacts the Prevalence of and Indicates the Amount of Deaths that will Occur from Malaria.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience?. Either the health club that I started, even though it did not last very long, or my time playing volleyball.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone?

Procrastination and dealing with the effects of burnout.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? One of the highlights throughout my journey at Riverstone was the Rogue river backpacking trip I went on with my grade. The weather was amazing throughout the trip and our leaders let us sleep in our hammocks.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Through my time at Riverstone I have been able to pursue many of my different interests in an academic setting. This has both prepared me for and allowed me to discover what major I want to pursue in college and the career I would like to make out of it.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Try not to procrastinate any work that will be turned into the IB, communicate with your teachers.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Fulfilling, trying, valuable.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Victoria N. Madison, Mississippi Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Mississippi in Oxford.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent does the Dalai Lama’s beliefs in equality among himself and his people affect their religious beliefs?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? My most meaningful CAS experience was doing pageants because it taught me so much and I met great people.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Outdoor trips because I'm not used to the mountains.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? I haven't been here long enough to make enough memories and consider one my favorite.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Feel prepared for essays.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) Your teachers are there for you, just email them. 2.) Don't stress over the IB because it is not the end of the world.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Stressful, overwhelming, and fun.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Annika P. Charlotte, North Carolina Which university will you attend after graduation? University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Impact of Criminal Justice on Disney Princess Films.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Planning, Organizing, and Running a Model United Nations [MUN] Conference.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Going on the outdoor trips. I had never camped for more than a night before attending this school.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Teton and Oregon MUN Conference of 2019.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Riverstone taught me that I am tough, smart, and can get through anything.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) It's possible to procrastinate and pass, but I don't recommend it. Your workload builds up fast. 2.) Keep in contact with all of your classmates; there's always someone who knows the answer to that one homework problem.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Challenging, stressful, fun.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Ryan P. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent has the NBA’s transnational business interests created a conflict with human rights?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Basketball.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Managing my time.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Grand Gulch [Utah trip in Grade 9], basketball with the boys.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Better at writing essays.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Have fun, grades don't matter.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Formative, Summative, Assessment.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Charlie P. Boise, Idaho Which college/university will you attend after graduation? University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5 What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Developmental Sustainability of Incentivized Alternative Energy.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Setting and meeting fitness goals for the gym.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? One of the most challenging parts about my time at Riverstone has been managing large projects for the IB while finding time for myself.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? I most enjoyed the 8th grade river trip and driving off campus with friends to get lunch, against the best interest of our bank accounts.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Through my experiences at Riverstone I have become a skilled writer and manager of my own time and capabilities. The intensity at Riverstone has taught me to be efficient at what I do. Most importantly, though, the classes I have taken at Riverstone have taught me to learn through inquiry and to seek understanding. This approach will serve me well in my future, wherever it takes me.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? I would first recommend that if you are struggling with a subject in Grades 9 through 11, take the time during those years to learn and study them better rather than waiting to study before IB exams while you're simultaneously trying to finish Internal Assessments. Second, take advantage of any opportunity that allows you to spend time with your friends between chaotic school days.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Challenging, enriching, fulfilling.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Quoc (Paul) P. Saigon, Vietnam Which college/university will you attend after graduation? Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? How does Sherman Alexie use literary techniques to illustrate humanity between the characters in the book The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Varsity basketball.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Adapting to a new culture.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Making it to the State Championship with the [basketball] team and winning Districts.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm becoming better at managing my time.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Grades don't actually matter & have fun.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Welcoming, bonds, challenging.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Emma P. Hailey, Idaho

Which college/university will you attend after graduation? University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1 What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning to live on my own.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Genetically manipulating E. coli and debating literature concepts in Mr. Scripps' English class.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know I can handle a serious workload.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do not procrastinate. Don't stress too much, you can do it.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Difficult, adventurous, connecting.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Bekjigit (Beka) S. Almaty, Kazakhstan Which university will you attend after graduation? Penn State University in College Station, Pennsylvania.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3 What is the title of your Extended Essay? How George Orwell has demonstrated the utopian world in the book 1984.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Teaching kids math.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? I have never experienced American education before which was a big change in my life.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? One of the most interesting trips was the college trip. I have never done these kinds of trips in my life, and this was an educational experience for me. I had awesome time with my friends and learned a lot about colleges. Now the most interesting club that I have attended was the robotics club. I always had an interest in robotics before coming to the US, which is why I was happy for this kind of opportunity. I would say that was my first time actually building a robot. In a word, it was worth every second that I have spent here. Moreover, we had Moreno who always kept us pushing and interested in robotics. Also we had other students from other schools, which made more fun for me because I got interact with more people.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I would say I became better at writing big papers, also how teamwork is important in any sports.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Always listen to the teacher’s advice and don’t be scared to ask questions. Also know that procrastination is going to put you under a lot of stress.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Entertaining, family, unique.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Guanjian (Joyce) S. Hangzhou, China Which university will you attend after graduation? University of Minnesota, Twin Cities in Minneapolis.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2 What is the title of your Extended Essay? Shakespearean Tragedy: A Literary Analysis of Lady Macbeth in The Tragedy of Macbeth.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Participation in the school Variety Show.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Living in the dorms and communicating with people are my challenges at Riverstone.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? My favorite memory at Riverstone is participating in different bands and concert.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Academics-wise, I have learned important skills in writing.

As an international student, this will help me a lot in college. I also learned how to communicate with others, both my classmates and teachers.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? One is start your college application early, don't wait until the last minute. The second one is to be hardworking as much as you can.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Various, pleasant, benefited.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Jacoby S. Boise, Idaho

Which university will you attend after graduation? University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Morehead-Cain Scholar.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3 What is the title of your Extended Essay? Vietnam War, United States Military Campaign, and Political Failure in America–a study of how America’s military campaign in Vietnam was ultimately ineffective, resulting in insurmountable losses in both America and Vietnam.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Completing community service initiatives and donation drives.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Finding the ideal balance between Riverstone and other activities took a few months when I enrolled in my 10th grade year, however, it did not take long to find the right medium.

Riverstone is an amazing institution, but if you do not allow yourself to open up to other schools, friends, and communities, you can inadvertently inhibit opportunities and experiences.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? My 10th grade fall trip creating new relationships and climbing peaks with Mr. Scripps and Andrea. The endless laughs and differences with Ms. Bistritz which helped me realize there is much more to school than just academics.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Throughout my high school career, I have balanced a job, an organization, extracurriculars, and academics while making the most of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Riverstone aims to shape the best student possible and the only way to truly succeed begins with buying into the system while consistently working hard to reach the best outcome possible.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?

1.) Never hesitate to reach out to staff whether it be a funny story, a college decision, assignment status, or general concerns. They are there to give us the best experience possible. 2.) Appreciate the small things (the hallway stories, the basketball games, laughing with teachers, and the late night assignments) because one day you will realize no matter how difficult it might have been, you only get to do it once...so be yourself.

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What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Ambiguous, appreciative, transitional.

Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Faye S. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? American University in Washington, D.C. How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6 What is the title of your Extended Essay? An Analysis of the Growth of Spanish Nationalism as a Result of the Catalan Independence Movement.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Creating MiniMUN, a model United Nations conference, with Annika P. What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Finding my own community within the larger Riverstone community.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Bothering Shadrach [former teacher] with Layla B. On our Model UN trip to Seattle!

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I can work collaboratively in a meaningful, effective way. I have learned to easily adapt to new environments as a result of tough backpacking trips.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1.) Don't procrastinate! It can only hurt you. 2.) Set a specific time to go to bed at no matter what is due the next day.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Community, challenging, transformational.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Chongzhi (Joe) W. Be ing, China Which university will you attend after graduation? Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? An analysis of the safety of the single-pier bridge and an examination of some methods to improve the safety of the bridge.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Playing music.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning how to draw in art classes.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rogue River trip in 10th grade.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm a better writer.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Take time to know yourself and enjoy your time at Riverstone.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Diverse, supportive, unusual.

ij

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Haiming (Ruby) W. Shanghai, China

Which college/university will you attend after graduation? University College London in England.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent does the concentration of sodium cation via NaCl salt solution have an impact on the size of silver nanoparticles as measured by UV-vis wavelength?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Building shelter houses for feral cats.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Grand Gulch Outdoor Trip [in Grade 9].

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Joining the volleyball team!

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I feel prepared because backpacking trips had taught me that the life is far more difficult than I thought, and the academic workload in Riverstone would help me better adapt to college life.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? As the IB DP program is quite tough, I don't think anyone can lose confidence in themselves at any time. I would suggest everyone to finish as much work as you can in junior life, so that your graduating year will be less stressful.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Challenging, unforgettable, outdoor.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Julia W.

Bend, Oregon

Which college/university will you attend after graduation? Colorado College in Colorado Springs.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1 What is the title of your Extended Essay? To What Extent Do The Dichotomies In Wild Reflect Cheryl Strayed’s Battle With Essentialist Gender Norms Throughout Her Journey On The PCT [Pacific Coast Trail]?

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? The creation of my non-profit, Bend Food Services, which provided high school students with the opportunity to serve their communities by delivering day old pastries from local cafés/bakeries to food shelters in the area.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning to say no.

There are so many wonderful people here and I have been able to participate in so many fun activities and rigorous courses. I certainly struggled initially with learning when to say no to over-committing myself to all the new experiences I found here!

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? 1) Winter Wednesday at Bogus: I had such an amazing time skiing with all my friends and getting to know my classmates outside of a traditional learning environment. 2) Calling Mrs. Schmutzler to tell her I got a 7 on my GP IA after more or less failing the rough draft. That moment was the definition of failing, being reinspired, working hard, and reveling in the feeling of accomplishment!

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.

The lesson I will takeaway most from my time at Riverstone is that the nature of my relationships, whether they are friendships, teacher-student relationships, mentors, dorm parents or dorm siblings is not representative of the quantity of time spent with those people but the quality of energy and emotions I put into those relationships.

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?

1) Try everything! Don’t shy away from a sport because you’ve never played it, or leave a discussion because you feel uniformed. 2) Find some sort of physical activity

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to break up your days. The academics take some getting used to so taking a walk, hitting the gym or playing soccer with friends is a great way to stay focused and motivated.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Family, adventure, challenge.

Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

River W. Boise, Idaho Which university will you attend after graduation? Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4 What is the title of your Extended Essay? For the Sake of the Salmon.

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Beartooth backpacking trip.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Time management for large projects has been difficult for me.

What are your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Grand Gulch [in Grade 9] was an amazing trip, and the college trip + dumplings was rad. All the goofy fun times in class were my favorite thing about high school.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have practical experience due to my IAs [Internal Assessments] in bio and geo, and have the skills to research and write expansively about a topic, because of my experience with the EE. [Extended Essay].

What is a piece of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Appreciate it while it lasts, you never know if a pandemic will cut you off from your friends. Having relationships with your teachers is pretty rad, capitalize on it by asking them questions.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Hectic, goofy, versatile.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

Taavi Z. Boise, Idaho Which college/university will you attend after graduation? Gap year then attending Montana State University in Bozeman.

How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13 What is the title of your Extended Essay? “To what extent do aspect, slope angle, and elevation affect the probability of avalanches occurring in Mores Creek Summit?”

What was your most important or meaningful Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) experience? Making a short ski film.

What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Trying to find water on our Grand Gulch trip.

What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Outdoor trips and soccer.

Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am much better at managing my workload and working with others to accomplish tasks.

What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1. Manage your time well and you will be much less stressed 2. Don't spend all your time focused on school.

What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone?

Busy, merrymaking, memorable.

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Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021

College Acceptances for the Class of 2021 *Asterisk indicates student(s) attending University of Alabama Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences American University* Arizona State University Arizona State University–Barrett Honors College* University of Arizona Bard College Bates College Belmont University* Boise State University Boston University Boston University Kilachand Honors College Bowdoin College Bryn Mawr College Bucknell University University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara University of California, Santa Cruz Carleton College Carnegie Mellon University* Case Western Reserve University* Chapman University* Colgate University* University of Colorado, Boulder Colorado College*** Colorado State University, Fort Collins Dartmouth College Denison University University of Denver University of Edinburgh The Evergreen State College

Fairfield University University of Florida University of Florida–Honors College Gonzaga University Fort Lewis College George Washington University University of Georgia* The College of Idaho* University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Johns Hopkins University Juniata College Lewis & Clark College University College London* Macalester College University of Maryland-College Park University of Miami-School of Business Administration Michigan Technological University University of Michigan** Middlebury College* University of Minnesota-Twin Cities** University of Mississippi* Montana State University* University of Montana University of New Hampshire* University of New Haven New York University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill* University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-Honors College Oregon State University* Pennsylvania State University* Portland State University University of Puget Sound* Purdue University* University of Redlands

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Reed College* Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Richmond University of Rochester Roger Williams University University of San Francisco Savanah College of Art and Design Seattle University Sierra Nevada University Smith College University of South Dakota* University of Southern California* Southern Methodist University University of St. Andrews (Scotland) Swarthmore College Texas A&M International University Texas A&M University-College Station The University of Texas at Austin University of Twente* (The Netherlands) Ohio State University University of Oregon University of Utah Vanderbilt University University of Vermont Villanova University University of Virginia* University of Virginia– College of Arts and Sciences Wake Forest University University of Washington, Seattle Western Washington University Whitman College* Willamette University University of Wisconsin-Madison Yale–NUS College* Meet the Seniors: Riverstone Class of 2021