SENIORS
Dear Riverstone Community,
An Introduction and Welcome from Stacey Walker, High School Director
You are invited to learn more about our graduating class in this installment of Meet the Seniors! In these pages, you will hear from our incredible seniors firsthand about their experiences at Riverstone and their journeys to come.
Four of our seniors, Presley B., Finn S., Cooper S., and Lily S., have been Riverstone students their whole academic journey. This class also has eleven graduating boarding students, including Marina B., Alex D., Noah F., Jaway G., Elle L., Ines L., Tom S., Mia S., Michael S., Elisa W., and Misha W. No matter when in their journey they joined us, we have been honored to be a part of it.
As a senior class, they are cohesive, inspiring, and creative. They know how to bring joy to each other and our community, have created traditions that will outlast them for years to come. We look forward to watching their bright futures unfold ahead of them. We are thrilled to honor the Class of 2025 in this edition of Meet of the Seniors — enjoy!
With Gratitude,
Stacey Walker
Alex D.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1
What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent can economic sanctions be effective in punishing Russia for its act based on Russia’s adaptation ability?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Snowboarding with my peers. I’d never done it before and I learned a lot!
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Getting used to the school culture. I had to learn that the teachers really want you to talk with them and ask for help.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Attend Chem Club at Riverstone, learning how to observe and do interesting chemistry experiments with Mrs. Francomb.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm able to make short term and long term plans for whether my school work or my daily life and I can manage both of those things better now.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1. Always manage your time wisely. 2.Yolo, so live your everyday life with a positive attitude.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Dedicating. Thinking. Fascinating.
Amer S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5
What is the title of your Extended Essay? How the US sanction exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Training with Julian for basketball has been my most meaningful CAS experience because I've seen his progress and how much better he's gotten. He works hard and it makes me happy to see what he's accomplished and the skills he’s developed.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? One of the challenges I faced at Riverstone was caring about subjects that didn't interest me. I wouldn't try when that happened, but I learned to put more effort into assignments or classwork that I didn't initially find interesting.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? One of my favorite memories at Riverstone was learning that I made varsity basketball my freshman year. To have a coach have that much faith in me when I was only in 9th grade meant a lot and helped my confidence. Another one of my favorite memories was the Grand Gulch trip in 10th grade. We found so many cool spots to throw rocks and look at the views and sunsets.
What the ways in which you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey? I know that I can work well with most people. Riverstone teaches both collaboration and communication skills that are applicable to many aspects of life, such as sports, jobs, or school assignments.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Always be yourself and do your homework.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Happy. Fun. Impactful.
Athindriya S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Since I just joined Riverstone a few months ago, I am still figuring this out! So far my challenges have been developing new friendships, hiking during my first backpacking trip, and studying chemistry.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Camping trip. I learned so much and had a great time!
How you are prepared for the next part of your journey? I'm a better time manager.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
1) Don't overthink it and 2) Stay calm
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Awesome. Epic. Legendary.
Austin A.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Nuclear Power Perception
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Tennis and Basketball
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Hard classes.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Reading all of the fun and exciting pieces of literature that Shadrach assigns and developing my research skills.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Riverstone has helped my time management.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Really fun. Exciting. Memorable.
Bella S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2.5
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Does Reading Percy Jackson Miseducate Modern Readers?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Working with my Grade 7 mentor-student to complete her project.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Trying hard subjects and taking two science classes.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone?
Psychology class when the bunny came and completing the TOK exhibition.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I'm a better time manager.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Keep working hard on what you want your life to be not what others want it to be for you.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Interesting. Exhilarating. Surprising.
Caelan M.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience?
Helping create a natural environment in a canal in 9th grade because I can walk over today and see how our work helped form the landscape.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Making new friends
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone?
On the Rogue River trip when we got stuck in van and sledding on the snowshoeing trip.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I’m slightly better at time management. :)
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Just complete your work when teachers assign it.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Outdoors. EE. Small community.
Conrad N.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 10
What is the title of your Extended Essay? How Does Sleep Deprivation Affect College Athletes
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Staying focused during class.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? All the spring trips and basketball.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am better in leading and communicating effectively.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Do what makes you happy and think about what is important.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Funny. Tight-knit. Open-minded.
Cooper S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13
What is the title of your Extended Essay?
Emotional neglect and its impact on future parenting.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Tennis and athletics.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The DP program and adapting to the level of difficulty.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone?
Grand Gulch freshmen year or fall trips.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I don't procrastinate and I know how to ask for help.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Make friends with your teachers and don’t be scared to ask for help.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Fun. Outdoor. Challenging.
Dylan L.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6
What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent do modern interpretations of the Quran and Islamic beliefs justify violent actions in the name of God?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Riverstone Basketball
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning how to balance all of the experiences offered while managing various deadlines.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The outdoor trips are easily the highlights of my time here because they helped me build so many friendships.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I feel more comfortable with myself as a person, not having to perform for anyone ' s expectations but my own. I know that if I stay consistent to a project long term than I can become passionate in my work.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don't worry about fitting in or catering to people just because of the scarcity of social groups at this school, stay true to yourself and the right people will gravitate towards you. Find something you actually care about and use it as motivation to do well, set standards for yourself.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Limited. Challenging. Interesting.
Elaine S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Glass Barriers and Urban Anxiety: The Transcendent Loneliness of Edward Hopper
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Starting a plein air/sketch booking club.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My first backpacking trip.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The Grade 11 college trip.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm better at time management.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Don't procrastinate on your EE, and have fun!
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Welcoming. Outdoor-focused. Impactful.
Elle L.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3
What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent does the importance of Confucianism in Chinese culture change the idea of Confucianism as a religion.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Tutoring younger kids from the elementary
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? School work and transferring AP to IB
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Prom and the Variety Show.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I plan things out early and have learned to be more prepared.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Try not to procrastinate and find balance.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Challenging. Surprising. Grateful.
Elias G.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? How do the Parameters of Sag Ratio, Span and Mass per Unit Length Affect the Natural Frequency of a Suspension Bridge?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? River cleanup.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Having my father as the Head of School and having him edit my “Meet the Seniors” page.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Basketball open gyms, Winter trips to the yurts last year, Volleyball games, Food club.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Especially within the IB program, I have realized that time management and productivity are of the utmost importance when it comes to schoolwork and being successful.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don’t procrastinate and speak to as many people as you can
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Fun. Educational. Worth it.
Emiliia S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your extended essay? To what extent does the decision-making process deviate between American and Russian cultures in relation to collectivist vs individualist societies?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Helping pack packages for people who struggle in Ukraine.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Trying hard in subjects that weren't my favorite.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The Rogue River trip!
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I'm a better time manager and I'm more organized now.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do your work ahead of time and work to find a balance.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? New. Fun. Amazing.
Finn S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Modern Caste System Referenced in Ancient Hindu Texts
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Playing basketball.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Sleeping outside during the winter trip in Grade 11.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Basketball and the Grand Gulch backpacking trip.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am very good at being productive because I take my education very seriously.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Have fun and don't be late.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Memorable. Friendly. Fun.
Gavin C.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 8
What is the title of your extended essay? A Comparison Between Religious Jihad and its Extremist Interpretations.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Volunteering on an Idaho Rivers United cleanup to remove 850 pounds of trash from the Boise River.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? All classes demanded a high quality of work, and it was challenging at times in classes that aren't my strong suit, but it overall made me more confident in my skills across all classes.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone?
1. Hiking with Mr. Scripps to collect water in Grand Gulch 2. The 8th grade Hells Canyon backpacking trip–my first backpacking trip
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. The IB course load prepares you well for college assignments that are similar in specificity, difficulty, and time commitment. Additionally, the smaller class sizes prepare you well for the important and large-scale group projects that are common in college.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1. Take advantage of the fact that Riverstone is a small school with a closeknit community. There's many opportunities to get involved in the community and do a lot of great things
2. For big projects like the CAS project, the EE, the PP–choose topics you enjoy/are interested in, not topics that seem easy. The easiest topics are the ones you find enjoyment in, even if they seem daunting at first
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Unique. Personal. Interesting.
Ines L.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2.5
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Claim against Free Will.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Boise State Class with Izzie
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Probably the IB Exams this year.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Spending time with Izzie, literally any memory with her.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I can work well under pressure.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Get yourself an Izzie.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Memorable. Community. Fun.
Izzie M.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 12
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Simplifying the Principles of Minkowski Space
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Riverstone Basketball
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The EE
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Spending time with Ines, literally any memory with her.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. The IB exams and project-based curriculum allowed me to control my own learning, and learn better time management. This will be very amazing for college.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Get yourself an Ines.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? It was fun.
Jack S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Impact of Nitrous Oxide on Climate Change.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Making friends my first year and the TOK Exhibition.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rogue River and ultimate frisbee.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I am better at communicating with people from all backgrounds.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
It is important to get to know everyone regardless of there background because you never who they really are until you get to know them.
It is important to manage your time, especially when dealing larger projects such as the PP or EE.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Culture. Community. Hard-work.
Jake S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5
What is the title of your Extended Essay? What are the Effects of certain Deep-Sea Environmental Factors on the Evolution of Marine Organisms?
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? I had to learn about how to appropriately pack and prepare for outdoor trips so that I didn’t freeze on our winter trips.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Playing basketball, and all of the trips Riverstone plans.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. The IB has prepared me to learn the importance of balance and planning ahead. I now know that I can handle a serious workload.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don’t put off your EE until last minute. Every assignment that teachers provide matters and adds up to a greater knowledge base making the end goal easier.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Pretty. Fun. Overall.
Jane W.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The impact of moral injuries on American Veterans' ability to assimilate into civilian life.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? I started Riverstone River Guides a program that helps new students acclimate to Riverstone. As someone who joined Riverstone and experienced how overwhelming it can be, running River Guides and helping other new students avoid that chaos was really rewarding.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Balancing workload. In the DP the workload can become intense and managing life, health and school is an important skill I am still developing.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Grand Gulch Trip Freshman Year, beautiful scenery and great Mexican food. Snowshoeing Trip, playing charades in the yurt.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know I can handle intense workloads with heavy content. I have developed better studying techniques and have learned how to do well in a class that is initially difficult.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? In every class, try to find something you are interested in. The workload gets easier when you are fascinated by what you are learning. Similarly, when you are choosing classes, don't choose them because they are easy or look good on your application, choose them because you are genuinely curious about the content.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Enlightening. Empowering. Challenging.
Jaway G.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Relationship between China's hard and soft power and trade war
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Mock trial club
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Language and culture differences.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The backpacking trip this year and mock trial club meetings
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I’m a kind supporter and I’m good at managing relationships with others. I can easily keep the harmony on our team. I can also make neutral decisions on most questions by collecting others’ opinion.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Be kind to each other, maybe someday they will be your best helper and your friend for the whole life.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Enthusiastic. Supportive. Optimistic.
John B.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? LowVelocity Aerodynamics: Investigating the Principles of Slow-Speed Flight
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Completing challenging assignments.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Costa Rica trip and the college trip.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know I can handle a college-sized workload and have better time management skills.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don’t let school control your life. Don’t be afraid of a challenge.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Supportive. Diverse. Challenging.
Kieran L.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Comparison between the graffiti artworks done by Keith Haring and Jean Michel Basquiat.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? My most meaningful CAS experience is helping my friend get his truck ready for a parade.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Making new friends and the extended essay.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? My favorite Riverstone memory is on the college prep trip when I got to know more people.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I can handle anything I put my mind to.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do your work and lock in.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Challenging. New. Opportunity.
Kohl F.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 7
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Multifaceted Influence of Sports Participation on Self-confidence: Exploring Social, Psychological, and Genetic Factors.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? The most important and meaningful CAS experience for me was creating my Riverstone Anglers Club. I'm getting to introduce other students and teachers to fly fishing. Riverstone is a place where you can work with the inner community and the outer community to do something you love, like flying fishing for me!
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The hardest part of Riverstone was trying to accept that failure is part of the process. I was always someone that focused on grades. In eighth grade biology with Ms Roper I learned it was about the big picture and connecting different topics together to help you fully understand different concepts on a deeper level that will later be shown in your progressive grades.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Singing along in a van with my classmates on our way to our Eagle Cap senior backpacking trip in the fall. Living in the moment and feeling so comfortable with each other that we belt out words to Bruno Mars. Hanging out in Ms McCarney's room talking and discussing all of the mayhem of being in high school, throwing her a baby shower, and having so much fun as we celebrate a teacher.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. After surviving the PP, I would say I'm better at using my creativity even in an academic setting where I have to focus to feel excited to complete something or study for an exam.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone?
Two pieces of advice that I would give to other students at Riverstone is take advantage of what Riverstone has to offer. Go on every outdoor trip even if you hate the outdoors you spend more time making memories than worrying about all the creepy bugs out there. Remember your teachers are here to help you become the best learner you can be.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Powerful. Memorable. Empowerment.
Leandra A.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 5
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Role of Angels in Christianity and Islam.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? My CAS project, planning/organizing and attending the 2023-2024 school year ' s Rake Up Boise event for the school.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Test anxiety, stress/fear of doing poorly.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Junior HOCO and Junior College trip
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I feel as if Riverstone has prepared me to be a good writer which I believe will be crucial not only in college but the rest of my life.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? DON'T PROCRASTINATE!
Don't make school your entire life; remember to have fun.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Unique. Tight-knit. Welcoming.
Lilu W.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The power of Paleoart
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? An internship I did that led me to find out about and become more interested in restoration.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning to better communicate.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Being able to hang out with my friends at the dorm and doing fun activities like floating down the river with them, and the freedom to try out new things in art class.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
That I can trust myself to manage tasks given to me with hard work, time, and patience.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Follow the path you most enjoy, even if it means to change your entire plan. You’re not able to plan out life, take it as it comes.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Fun. Hard work. Learning.
Lily S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 13
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Birth Control Pill: The Differences of Catholics, Latter-day Saints, and Episcopal Viewpoints Based on their Religious Beliefs.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Being the stage manager of the variety show.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? I would say during COVID and having such a small circle of friends.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? I have so many memories I can't really pick any that specifically, but my favorite trips were the college trip and Grand Gulch because of the car rides and fun traditions we made.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
Definitely knowing that I can handle a serious workload.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? To have confidence in yourself that you can do the IB. Riverstone prepares you so well for the workload, its just everything else that you are doing at the same time that makes it feel overwhelming.
To enjoy your high school experience. You are only a high schooler once so if you are stressing all the time about homework, you aren't gonna have fun or be fun to be around. Having set days to knock out homework and chill out on the others ones will destress you and allow you to hangout with your friends and do other activities.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Unique. Difficult. Life-changing.
Madeline K.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 3
What is the title of your Extended Essay? What role has Western liberalization played in the religious divide of Islam concerning women ’ s rights and issues?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? One of the most meaningful CAS experiences I've taken part of has definitely been participating in Finn's mission for Student Council in my junior year. Through this project, I, along with my peers, were able to raise $1000 dollars out of our $800 dollar goal to American Heart Association as well as learn how to save lives. Though it was a short CAS experience, it is definitely one of the ones I've done that have had the largest impact regarding community and service aside from my CAS Project of planning Rake Up Boise with one of my friends.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My challenges at Riverstone have primarily revolved around the rigorous academic work needed to complete the IB. I personally struggle a lot with motivation and deadlines, both of which are important. I have always been a huge procrastinator so this was definitely a struggle to overcome.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Despite our outdoor trips not always going the best, some of my favorite memories have been on them. It was always fun being able to connect and enjoy nature with my friends and peers. One of my favourite trips by far has been Rogue River in 10th grade because it was a great opportunity to just relax, have fun, and connect without too much physical activity. Another one of my favourite memories of my journey at Riverstone was made quite recently: Senior Sunrise. Senior Sunrise was a fantastic way to mark the beginning of an end to an important and meaningful journey made at Riverstone with my peers.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. After my time at Riverstone, I feel that I have been prepared for the next part of my journey in a multitude of ways. Despite still being a bit of a procrastinator, I feel like I have gotten better at time management and meeting deadlines. I also feel that from backpacking and other activities I have learned to connect with my peers in a way that I would have never expected had I not gone to Riverstone. Even though we all have our own friend groups, through trips we have been able to establish a great sense of community. Furthermore, Riverstone has taught me the value of collaboration, communication, and pushing myself academically. The next part of my journey, I feel, will be greatly supported by my experiences at Riverstone and what I learned from them.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1. Although the curriculum is rigorous and the workload can be extremely demanding, especially in your junior and senior year, it is important to recognize the academic value and do the best that you can because it will bring you loads of support in the future
2. A piece of advice that people hear a lot is to not to procrastinate, so do not procrastinate Procrastination could end up becoming your biggest enemy in the IB with the workload so pay attention to deadlines and don't end up rushing yourself because you didn't want to do the work. Do the work and do not procrastinate.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Strenuous Bonding Valuable
Marina B.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? To what extent can we improve pedagogy by applying the cognitive load theory to teachings?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Being a IB biology tutor.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? My personal challenges in Riverstone have been living in the dormitory.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Going to Lucky Peak with my friends Noah, Elias, and Matteo.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I learned the importance and the better ways to understand others’ perspective and communicate with others towards.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Always go on outdoor trips and talk to new people. This is how you make core memories!
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Selfdiscovery. Camaraderie. Overload ��.
Mia S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? How does the (competitive/professional) ballet environment intensify personal characteristics such as perfectionism and competitiveness?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Volunteering teaching Hebrew
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning in English
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Playing sports and outdoors trips.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Living on the other side of the world from where I’m from taught me to be responsible and manage my time by myself. I learned how to manage massive workload plus sports, friends, and more. I learned that I actually love the outdoors activities.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? I know that schoolwork is important, but don’t let it stop you from living your teenage year to the fullest. Don’t fail classes, spend time on your homework, and prepare for exams, but try to have fun and enjoy your last few years as a teenager.
Be yourself! If you don’t feel comfortable doing something don’t do it, feel comfortable with who you are and don’t let anyone make you feel like your unworthy of anything.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Challenging. Joyful. Outdoorsy.
Michael S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? How did political relations affect countries' and communities' opinions about Japan pouring waste water?
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Exercising during summer which helped me learn how to establish healthy goals for the future.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Learning about myself to know how to connect best with my peers. I had to learn to put down the technology and talk to my friends, but I’m very glad I did.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Soccer team in my 9th grade year helped me to grow as a person and make new friends.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I have learned how to balance multiple large projects at once and meet deadlines.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Be hard-working but also relax. There Is a lot to do and it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Relaxing. Fun. Challenging.
Misha W.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? A chemical precipitation investigation comparing the effects of using iron, calcium, and aluminum for maximum phosphate removal in an algae bloom environment.
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? My most meaningful CAS experience has been my participation in the Girl Up Club at Riverstone and the Girl Up Rocky Mountains Coalition Executive Board which oversees seven states. Through Girl Up, I help donated to the Women's & Children's Alliance, hosted several educational presentations for Riverstone, and co-hosted the annual summit for the Coalition.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Living in a dorm
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Spending time with my friends in the dorm and going downtown to Trader Joe’s.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I'm prepared for what college academics are like through the IB program.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? One piece of advice that I would give to other students at Riverstone is that finding a good system of organization is important for students to succeed in the IB program. My second piece of advice would be to find a good balance between their social lives, academics/extracurriculars, and sports/another important commitment.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Challenging. Surprising. Happy.
Noah F.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 2
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Ideale des Sturm und Drangs in der Literatur
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? My internship in a German company focusing on cooling systems
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Trying to get rides anywhere I want to go.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? The first rafting trip and outdoor trips, including visiting lakes.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey.
I know that I can easily adopt to new systems, people, and situations.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Other students at Riverstone should go out to swim in the Boise River and go to Lucky Peak. Learn how to speak Chinese!
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Community. River. Variety.
Presley B.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 11
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Exploring the Biblical Foundation for Christian Science Beliefs: The Denial of Healthcare Access for Children in the United States
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? I was doing an internship at my dad's company with him.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? It is being unable to handle the amount of work needed. There is loads and loads of work that needs to be finished by the end of the year, and it feels that I don't have enough time.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Going on the yurt trip with Emily and Bailey and being warm in the yurt while interacting with my friends without the distractions of technology. We played charades, mafia, and other games for around 6 hours.
Field days on that last day of school in elementary school. There were water slides, jousting, and the lazy pool where you would go and sit in nice cold water eating an otter pop.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am better at many different academic skills, such as time management, analysis, and finding ways that help me study and pay attention. As I move on to college, I will use all of these skills to help me move further in life.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Choose an EE topic that interests you to help the research process be more fun, have fun with your friends once and a while, and dedicate your whole life because then you won't have fun memories to look back on just a good grade.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Long. Relationships. IB.
Rafielle N.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Hadestown and Moulin Rouge’s use of different musical techniques
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Riverstone Volleyball. I’ve enjoyed the relationships I’ve had with my teammates. We had some highs and lows through my time, but it was all worth it.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? The biggest challenge I faced at Riverstone was when my best friend passed away freshman year.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? My favorite highlight of my Riverstone experience has been playing on the volleyball team for the last 4 years.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I feel I have reached a mental maturity through my experiences during my time at Riverstone that has prepared me to move on from high school and pursue knowledge at a higher level.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Take risks and don't be afraid to speak up for yourself.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Community. Difficult. Complicated.
Samuel I.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Negative Effects of Child Abuse on Social Functions
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Basketball with my teammates at Riverstone.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? A personal challenge I have had at Riverstone is definitely trying to get good grades in math and Biology. I’ve found that If I ask for help, my teachers and advisors are more than eager to help me with that challenge though.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Playing basketball with Finn S. and going on the Rouge River trip (also with Finn).
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I had to work really hard to learn how to balance the rigors of the DP, playing on a competitive Basketball team, as well as all of the other things we do at Riverstone (like outdoor trips) which forced me to learn how to communicate with my teachers to balance the workload. I know that I’m much better at time management now as a result as well.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Enjoy it. There is so much fun to be had, so don’t take things too seriously. But take your time, don’t rush through It all. Enjoy the experience.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Outdoors. Far. Cool.
Sina H.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 9
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Addicted to the Feed: The Negative Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance in Adolescents and Young Adults
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? One of my most important and meaningful CAS experiences was playing tennis for Timberline. Tennis taught me discipline, teamwork, and belonging. As an individual sport, tennis often puts pressure on the player to perform, but competing for the team has been very worth it and let me be part of another community outside of Riverstone Games were not just about personal success, but contributing to the team. Also, balancing practice with schoolwork required time management and commitment, but being able to improve my game while supporting my teammates and making memories made it incredibly rewarding
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? One of the biggest challenges for me at Riverstone has been managing the workload and staying on top of my classes. Balancing all the assignments, projects, and extracurriculars was definitely a bit overwhelming during certain times. It took some time to figure out how to stay organized and keep up with everything, but over time I’ve developed better time management skills, which has really helped.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? One of my favorite memories at Riverstone was deciding super late-minute to go on the winter backpacking snowshoeing trip to the yurts. Hiking through the snow with friends was fun, and staying in the warm yurts at night great and comfortable. I enjoyed sledding down the mountain next to our camp, as well as using syrup to make shaved ice from the snow. It was such a cool mix of adventure and bonding, and definitely something I’ll always remember and am grateful to have gone on
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I feel prepared for the next part of my journey because Riverstone has taught me to perfect and prioritize my time management through balancing heavily academically rigorous courses, extracurriculars, and athletics at the same time, which in turn helps me perform much better under pressure. These skills will always be useful in life, and being able to handle any future work will be very beneficial
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? 1. Use all the opportunities: Riverstone and this community in general offers so many opportunities for growth and exploring, which will be especially important in the future. Don't be held back because an opportunity is out of your comfort zone- you'll learn something out of the experience either way.
2. Take care of yourself; the course load at school and having a bunch of extracurriculars can be very draining and easily lead to burnout, so it's very important to take care of your physical and mental health. Have time to do hobbies, relax, and socialize, which will (in the end) help you stay afloat and be motivated
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Supportive. Challenging. Diverse.
Tiancheng L.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 6
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Effect of the Cultural Revolution on the Stylistic Choices of 2D animation in China
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Running an animation studio. I gathered a team of students and artists from across the globe to start an indie 2D animation studio. My goal is to provide resources for team members and help them create portfolio-worthy works while telling compelling stories. My role in the studio is founder, storyboarder, rough and cleanup animation, Background Design and Layout, character design and layout, and merchandising.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Surviving the DP. It truly Is a challenge, but I’ve learned so much through my time in it. Not just content, but understanding myself and how I handle the challenge.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Hanging out with classmates at the Mill, Visual Arts with Mr. Udesen.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I know I won’t break under stress as easily because I’ve been given the skills through supportive teachers to manage the high standards of Riverstone.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do anything you can to finish work early so it doesn’t pile up. Most teachers leave classwork that is due a week or so after its assigned and it’s easy to wait until the night before to do it, but it snowballs.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Tiring. Exciting. Supportive.
Tom S.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 1
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? Tennis has been my favorite CAS experience so far!
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Maybe just making friends, but at Riverstone, that is pretty easy.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Rafting trip with the dorm at the beginning of the year and the outdoor trip to Looking Glass Lake with the seniors.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I am more productive because I’ve had to learn how to balance multiple projects at one time.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do your EE throughout two years so that it is scaffolded over time. Go to Riverstone sport games.
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Fun. Productive. Unforgettable.
Vaughn G.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 11
What is the title of your Extended Essay? The Transitional Period of Rebirth in Hinduism
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? My most meaningful CAS experience was being able to volunteer at Saint Alphonsus Hospital. I loved being able to help patents and those who needed assistance.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Properly engaging with my peers has always been a struggle for me. Coupling that with my desire for excellence and it is a recipe for disaster. Riverstone has taught me that it is OK to make mistakes and grow from them.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Learning about religion with Mr Udesen. It is presented in such an engaging way that has expanded my horizons and taught me to be more open-minded. Seriously, World Religions is the BEST!
Pointless conversations in class which can derail an otherwise productive period are my absolute favorite. A word of advice, don't talk to Sam about milk.
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. Juggling the DP curriculum, high school, and club sports forces you to stay on track. I know I can handle a serious workload. The Riverstone Outdoor Programs, especially backpacking, taught me that I am tougher than I thought.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Don't procrastinate and always stay true to yourself
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Rigorous. Engaging. Transformative.
Zac H.
How many years have you been at Riverstone? 4
What is the title of your Extended Essay? Gearing and its effect on performance in single speed transmissions
What was your most important or meaningful CAS experience? I have found a lot of enjoyment in running the Mock Trial Club.
What have your (personal) challenges been at Riverstone? Making friends in my earlier years. I was able to join our joint swim team and meet lots of new students at other schools. Now I have plenty of friends here at RIS.
What are one or two of your favorite memories or highlights of your journey at Riverstone? Starting the HS Mock Trial Club has been huge for me. I’ve been able to create such a strong group of people that truly enjoy being at school super late for club events!
Tell us the ways you feel that you are prepared for the next part of your journey. I work well with others and work harder than I used to, because RIS pushes you to try your best even knowing you might not succeed the first time.
What are two pieces of advice that you want to give to other students at Riverstone? Do not procrastinate on your EE. Talk to people. It's easier than you think!
What are three words that describe your experience at Riverstone? Difficult. Fun. Preparing.
