Category Archives: Tips for New Ridley College Students

Alumni, Just for fun!, Ridley News, The Houses of Ridley, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized, Upper School

Dorm Room Must-Haves

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Alumnae, Geena Prestia ’21 and Angela Finn ’22 explain how you can transform your dorm room into a “home away from home.”

By: Geena Prestia ’21

Moving into your Ridley dorm room is the first step in designing your Ridley experience! Whether you are a boarder or a day student, decorating your room with both practical and personal items will give you a “home away from home” feel. Maybe you’ve already started brainstorming your design plan and are feeling a bit stuck on what you need to bring. In our latest blog post, recent graduates, Geena Prestia ‘21 and Angela Finn ‘22 give you the inside scoop on the dorm room must-haves for new Tigers!   
 
Prior to Ridley’s opening days, it is best to have all your dorm room essentials packed and ready to go. When it comes to the room itself, Ridley dorms are equipped with all the basics, so no need to worry about bringing a mattress on your flight over! Each dorm room in Ridley’s boarding houses has a bed, closet, desk and many shelves for the students to take advantage of. However, there are a few more practical items that are must-haves in your room.  

When Angela Finn reflects on her days living in G-East house as a full-time boarder, she offered these suggestions for what every new student should bring with them.

Shower Caddy

In the Ridley dorms, the bathrooms are communal. They are used by an entire floor full of students. “A shower caddy was a necessity when I was living in a dorm with about 50 girls. When you share a bathroom, it keeps your space clean and organized,” said Angela.

Bedroom Fan

Living with a bunch of your closest friends is a ton of fun but what is not too fun is melting in your dorm room. When Third Term springs around, it can get quite hot out and heat really does rise. That’s why having a bedroom fan in your room is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature for sleeping, studying or even just hanging out.

Each day student is also assigned to a dorm room with typically one or two boarding students. Geena Prestia, a day student during her time at Ridley, loved spending time with her roommates in G-East and decorated her space, despite living at home. Here are her tips for personalizing your room to match your energy!

Wall Décor

Whether it be posters, printed photos or wallpaper, there are so many ways you can spice up your room with wall décor. “Because I didn’t sleep in my dorm room, I wanted to give it more of a homey feel. So, I made it my own by hanging up photos of my friends and mini posters with some of my favourite quotes,” said Geena. Put your personality on display in your dorm with a sports jersey, your country’s flag and all things YOU!

Bed Décor

Another easy way to express yourself in your dorm room is with bed décor. A good nap is always more enticing when there’s a fun pillow to lay your head on. You can bring decorative pillows, a bedspread with a cool pattern, and even a funky rug to add pops of colour to your new home away from home!

Living away from home for the first time can be scary, but it is also an exciting adventure. Make the most of your time. You won’t regret it!

Academics, Alumni, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Tips for New Ridley College Students

Making the Most Out of Your Ridley Experience

Young alumna, Geena Prestia ‘21 explains how you can find your niche and flourish at Ridley.   

By: Geena Prestia ’21

Ridley is the land of opportunities for students. Academics, athletics, arts and more, Ridley has it all! Coming to a school with so much to offer is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming if you are unsure of where to start. We want all our new and returning Tigers to make the most of their Ridley experience. Our community facilitates a culture for students where they feel a strong sense of belonging, but it is also up to the individual to put themselves out there! Young alumna, Geena Prestia ‘21 explores how you can find your niche in our diverse community and flourish at Ridley.   

Show up 

Student life and spirit are integral components in making the most of your Ridley experience. Often, our students recount their favourite memories during their time at Ridley as the moments they spent with their fellow Tigers! “Staying late for café and getting dressed up in orange and black for spirit nights are times I will never forget when I remember Ridley,” said Geena. So, attend as many school dances and social events as you can. Even something as small as staying for dinner after practice can help you build new connections. Show up for your friends and share your Ridley pride with the community!  

Try new things  

Ridley allows its students to express themselves in various aspects of Ridley life. From sports teams to clubs, there is a new opportunity for you with every term. “You can try out a new club or sport every year, or you can stick with what you like. Either way, if there’s something you want to try or improve on, Ridley wants to help you get there,” said Geena. The multitude of options available to you may be overwhelming at first, but it is important to push those fears aside and test the waters! Who knows, you might even discover a new passion or skill along the way.  

Showcase your talents 

Whether you dream of being centre stage or prefer doing behind-the-scenes work, Ridley encourages students to share their artistic capabilities. Not only is it exciting to have your peers appreciate your talents, but all the opportunities Ridley offers in the arts can be an outlet of expression for many students. “I have always gravitated towards the performing arts, and I am so thankful that Ridley gave me a platform where I could share that with others,” said Geena. Take advantage of the access you’ve been given at Ridley to showcase your incredible talents with your fellow Tigers!  

Rely on your boarding community  

The daily schedule of a Ridley student is a busy one, and it can be challenging to juggle all these activities at once. We suggest looking to your boarding community for support. Ridley has given you a house full of about 50 brothers or sisters; they will always be there for you when you need them. “I don’t know what I would have done without the support of my G-East girls. They were always there when I needed them, and I would do anything for any one of them,” said Geena. You’ll never know how many strong bonds you can create and what the future holds for your friendships until you try!   

Build relationships with teachers  

Making the most of your Ridley experience and the stellar education you will receive also means building connections with your teachers. Whether their lessons be school-related or advice on life in general, your teachers want to support you in every way they can. “One of the best parts about going to class was getting to talk to and laugh with my favourite teachers,” said Geena. Over the years, they will watch you grow as a student and as a person and reflect on where you started with fondness. Recognize their support, utilize it during your time as a student and keep in touch after you graduate!    

Ridley is more than just a school. It is a place where students discover their strengths and weaknesses, adopt an open-minded perspective on the world and leave with lifelong connections. Make the most of your Ridley experience; it goes by much faster than you think! 

Alumni, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Ridley Traditions, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized

Trendy Tigers: Ridley College Uniforms  

Alumna Geena Prestia ’21 shares some of the top-ranked uniform items, available at Hanks, that students can wear both in and out of the classroom. 

By: Geena Prestia ’21

Wearing a uniform allows our students’ personalities to shine from within while strengthening our community through a collective sense of belonging. Not to mention, it makes our students’ morning routine as easy as one, two, three!  

Last year, we unveiled our new uniform, which has a look that feels like Ridley. They brainstormed new styles that incorporated the Ridley orange and black, whilst still maintaining a fashion-forward look. Over the course of the year, our students have added their own personalities to their uniforms by mixing and matching their favourite pieces.  

Are you a new student looking to learn more about how to add spice to your new school fit? Fear not, Hank is here to help!  

Our campus store has more to offer than just tasty snacks and stacks of textbooks. So, make your way down to Hank’s and use this Trendy Tigers list to help you find all the student favourites that will be sure to elevate your on-and-off-campus style.   

Here are some of the top-ranked items that students can wear both in and out of the classroom. 

Bucket Hats  

Starting off with one of the trendier pieces offered in the on-campus store, bucket hats are a huge hit with our Tigers! They are offered in different styles and, although not acceptable to wear during class, are perfect for our outdoor activities in the Spring term. Try one out and stay protected from the sun when running around A Squad.  

Plaid Kilt  

A staple piece in the new uniform design, the plaid kilt is the perfect blend of sophisticated and stylish! This item is typically worn by female students during the school day, and pairs nicely with the new black and orange blazer for Chapel. The plaid kilt can be worn year-round, as Hank’s offers nylons and kilt shorts for our Tigers to wear underneath during the cooler months! 

Winter Accessories  

Speaking of the chillier months of the year, Hank’s has tons of options for students to keep warm. Whether you’re tobogganing on the back fields or watching our Prep Hockey team at a spirit night, a Ridley tuque and pair of gloves are the perfect accessories!  

Cadet Sweater Coat  

One of the longest-standing articles of the Ridley uniform, the cadet sweater coat is the perfect layer for any occasion. This piece can be worn with the cadet practice uniform, as well as in your wardrobe outside of school. Many alumni return to campus in this iconic sweater during the homecoming season. So, head down to the sewing room and start adding on your sports badges and cadet pins until the back of your sweater is covered in Ridley pride!  

With such an incredible team of designers, the Ridley brand has been seamlessly incorporated into the school uniform this past year. Ridley is dedicated to keeping every Tiger looking funky, fresh and fun. We cannot wait to see you rocking some of Hank’s favourite pieces on campus!  

Alumni, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Ridley Traditions, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized

Why Ridley? Spirit, Service, Students

What makes Ridley College exceptional? In our latest blog post, young alumna, Geena Prestia ’21 explores three areas pivotal to Ridley life—spirit, service and student life—and how they contribute to an extraordinary Ridley experience. 

By: Geena Prestia ’21

Spirit and service and student life, oh my! Ridley is well-known for the stellar academic curriculum it has to offer; however, there are a vast number of opportunities for students to try new things and develop useful skills outside of the classroom.

This blog will explore three areas pivotal to Ridley life—spirit, service and student life—and how they contribute to an extraordinary Ridley experience.

Spirit  

Go Blacks Go! One of the many beloved Ridley cheers sung at spirit events, where our student body is full of orange and black pride. No matter how athletic or artistic you are, there is always a place where you belong at Ridley. As a tight-knit community, the Tigers always look forward to exciting school events such as Snake Dance and Pep Rally, where school spirit is at the forefront of it all. “Some of my favourite memories from my time at Ridley were spent decked out in orange and black gear with friends; we always had a blast cheering and dancing at spirit events,” said alumna, Geena Prestia ’21. This school spirit will stick with you long after you leave the Ridley campus. Once a tiger, always a tiger!  

Service  

At Ridley, there are endless opportunities for you to serve our community, as well as those outside of Ridley. From the Santa Claus Parades across the Niagara region to weekend dog walking on campus, or even March Break service trips, Ridley provides several options for students to choose from. “I went on a service trip to Guatemala in grade nine, and it was one of the most incredible experiences I have ever had,” said Geena. We are so fortunate to belong to a safe and welcoming community at Ridley, and this we recognize as we encourage our Tigers to give back to those less fortunate.  

Students  

Our students bring life to campus. Ridley facilitates an environment beyond just a school; for most, it is a second home. With over half of the Upper School population being made up of boarders from all over the world, the students truly rely on one another for support and fun at their home away from home. “Even as a day student, I always found the students at Ridley, especially the girls I spent most of my time with in G-East, to be like my second family,” said Geena. At Ridley, it doesn’t matter what your favourite sport is, how many instruments you can play or if you know how to spell International Baccalaureate; every student has a place where they can be themselves and share that with their peers. The bonds our students make at Ridley are long-lasting during their time at the school and in the years to come.  

When she reflects on her eight years at the school, Geena said, “Ridley is a special place, and I know that I will always have a home there.”  

Why Ridley? Because it is where you belong.  

Alumni, Just for fun!, Ridley News, The Weekend Programme, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized

Top Things to Do in the Niagara Region

Alumnae, Geena Prestia ’21 and Angela Finn ’22 share their thoughts on the best places to shop, snack and explore in the Niagara Region.

By: Geena Prestia ’22

Calling all Ridley explorers! Ridley is proud to be a part of the bountiful Niagara Region, and we know that when our students want to stretch their paws, they love to explore all that the outside community has to offer. From the plethora of restaurants in the area to the many beautiful sights, like Niagara Falls, there is always something for our Tigers to do when class is not in session. Recent graduates, Geena Prestia ‘21 and Angela Finn ‘22 share the best places to shop, snack and explore in our latest blog post.   

When Geena remembers her many years spent at Ridley, there is a collection of fun memories, both on and off campus. Here were some of her favourite things to do in Ridley’s surrounding community:  

Clifton Hill & The Falls  

As a Niagara Falls native, one of Geena’s number one recommendations for an exciting day trip is visiting Niagara Falls itself at the bottom of the infamous Clifton Hill. “With arcade games, mini golf, haunted houses and the big Sky Wheel, there is so much to explore in such a small area!” she says.

At the very bottom of Clifton Hill is where you can overlook the amazing waterfalls. It’s a view you will not want to miss!  

Pen Centre & Landmark Cinemas  

When winter rolls around, it can get quite chilly in Niagara, making some outdoor spots a little tricky to visit. If you’re looking for a way to stay warm on a cold day but still have some fun, we suggest you visit the Pen Centre mall and Landmark movie theatre in St. Catharines. Just a short drive from Ridley’s campus, there are plenty of trendy stores for you and your friends to spend the day browsing in. Conveniently built right next door to the mall, Landmark Cinemas always has great movie showings, and you can enjoy the show with a nice buttery bag of popcorn! 

Apart from the various places you can visit in Niagara, the region is home to several incredible restaurants for you to try. Angela Finn shares some of her top recommendations for the foodies of Ridley: 

Wind Japanese & Thai  

If you are a sushi fan, this restaurant will not disappoint! Just a short walk over the Burgoyne Bridge, Wind is the perfect lunch or dinner spot for our Tigers. “My friends and I always loved going to Wind for dinner, they have so many options and the food is delicious!” says Angela. If you do decide to go, we recommend wearing some loose bottoms, because this all-you-can-eat style restaurant will have you stuffed for hours!  

Mahtay Café & Lounge  

If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, or even a new study space, Mahtay Café is the perfect spot for you. The urban vibe of the restaurant is a hit among our students, and their creative sandwich recipes are to die for! Next time you’re feeling a little restless on a Sunday afternoon in the dorms, bring a good book and an empty tummy down to St. Paul Street for a tasty snack and refreshing iced coffee at Mahtay.  

Niagara has so many opportunities for Ridley students to explore new places, try new things and take a break from their busy school schedules every now and then. So, put your explorer hat on and immerse yourself in all the excitement that Niagara has to offer!  

Just for fun!, Ridley News, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized, Upper School

Gratitude During COVID

By Vanessa Ferrante ’21

The past year has certainly brought its share of challenges—but it’s also started important conversations about managing stress, cultivating resilience and finding hope. For TigerPost contributor, Vanessa Ferrante ’21, practicing gratitude has been a key part of her stress-busting strategy during the pandemic. Read on to learn how simply being thankful can help you.

There have been a lot of things to stress about during this pandemic. The risk of becoming sick, having to quarantine, learning virtually, not going out with friends, and more. This has amplified our anxiety and sense of helplessness making us lose sleep, hope and serenity. Being in a constant state of stress is not good for our minds, bodies, and those around us. One ‘stress-buster’ that I find especially helpful is expressing gratitude.

stressed student with laptop

Being in a constant state of stress is not good for our minds, bodies, and those around us.

Gratitude is a state of mind where you focus on the present and your blessings in life. When we both express and receive gratitude, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the two most crucial neurotransmitters responsible for our emotions. You try to forget the negatives and focus instead on the silver linings that make you happy. Gratitude is easy in good times, however, when times are tough, it is not always that simple. It is important to know that there are always things to be grateful for in your life. By allowing yourself to turn to gratitude, you can find hope amidst despair.

signs posted on fence that read Thank You Ridley and Dean's House with a heart

Gratitude can always be learned and, if practiced properly, you will reap the benefits that come with it. Perhaps during COVID you are feeling sadness, grief, anxiety, stress, fear, and even anger. Having emotional balance helps us to attain stabilization between our mind and body. When this happens, remember that you are feeling these emotions for a reason. Acknowledge them and allow yourself to experience them while also knowing when it’s time to feel happy.

During these unprecedented times, it is obvious that we should be grateful to essential workers, such as food suppliers, healthcare workers, delivery people, and first responders. They have all taken on risks for the benefit of everyone else. How can we repay them? We do this by showing gratitude and paying kindness forward. Although it is extremely important to be grateful for essential workers, we should express appreciation for all those who make our life easier and happier.

Lower School students sitting in a circle in a classroom

One might ask, “how do I do that?” There are many ways in which one can practice gratitude. Perhaps you can put your gratitude on paper: write down the names of three people or things in your life for which you are grateful and why. Or maybe you can tell someone you appreciate them. I know I appreciate the teachers and staff at Ridley who are working overtime to find creative ways to teach us virtually and keep us safe. How about challenging yourself to stop complaining for 21 days? Break the habit of concentrating on the bad in your life. Showing gratitude feels good and encourages kindness in those who receive gratitude, and in anyone who witnesses a kind act.

four Ridley friends smiling with their arms around each other

It is important to know that there are always things to be grateful for in your life.

When you live your life this way, it is contagious—just like the COVID virus. Except, you want this virus in your life! When you do something kind, those around you will pick up on it and want to pay it forward. One action has the potential to spark a chain reaction. There are lots of ways you can practice gratitude as the world deals with times of uncertainly. What has become crystal clear is that only through our efforts, together, can we create a better future for us all.

This article was published in the Winter 2021 issue of TigerPost magazine.

Lower School, Ridley News, The Houses of Ridley, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Uncategorized, Upper School

A Positive Approach to Masks for Children

How parents and educators can promote wellbeing and quell anxieties related to wearing a mask or face covering at school.

By Sue Easton, Director of Wellbeing & Learning

As we prepare to return to campus amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, questions about the impact of wearing non-medical masks or face coverings on student wellbeing have surfaced. While wearing a mask has been proven to lessen exposure and provides us with the ability to reintegrate into society, it can be a challenge for us to accept the changes the virus has imposed on our lives. For children, this can be an even more complicated transition to understand, which is why it is vital to speak to young children about their emotions surrounding the start of school and the changes it may bring—including mask-culture.

As a positive education school, Ridley uses the PERMA-V Model to define “flourishing,” and we have used this framework to address common social-emotional concerns and to share some tips and help prepare families for September.

Positive Emotions

  • provide positive reinforcement for appropriate use of masks, when you are out in the community
  • give children choice in relation to the comfort of thier mask (some children like elastic behind the ears, while others prefer a toggle at the back)
  • give children choice on the appearance of their masks (for younger students, a ‘superhero’ approach has been used for years in parts of Asia and may be effective)
A lower school student in a mask sits outside.

Communicate clearly, considering tone, expression and body language – all of us at Ridley will, too!

Engagement

  • for younger children, use imaginative play to demonstrate appropriate use (e.g. with stuffed animals) and familiarize them with how their teachers may look this fall
  • for older children, make masks together to ensure that appearance and comfort are personalized
  • Practice wearing a mask while doing a task kids enjoy (such as watching TV or playing on electronics) to help normalize the feeling

“Not everyone is able to wear a face mask and many disabilities are invisible. Assume positive intent and be kind and respectful to those who cannot wear a face mask.”

Relationships

  • model appropriate mask use – children use social referencing to decide what they should do, meaning parents and teachers can lead by example.
  • communicate clearly, considering tone, expression and body language – all of us at Ridley will, too!
  • normalize the use of masks, giving young children the opportunity to watch and get used to seeing others in masks, as well as wearing them
  • acknowledge feelings of discomfort, rather than telling children that they shouldn’t have a big issue with wearing a mask or seeing someone in a mask.
A masked female student poses in uniform with her backpack.

Meaning

  • help children understand why we are wearing masks, and the importance of doing our best to protect ourselves and others in our community (personalize it if you can, ie: grandparents)
  • share information with them to further their understanding, like in this Bill Nye video
  • support children in creating cloth masks for others in the community who do not have access

Achievement

  • celebrate consistency and appropriate use of masks as a way to be kind to others
  • encourage self-advocacy when children do not hear or understand what someone says to them

Give children choice on the appearance of their masks.

Vitality

  • remind children that it has been repeatedly proven that we can breathe effectively through masks
  • teach children how to put on and take off masks so that they are avoiding touching certain parts of the mask or storing it in a santitary location during lunch or outdoor play.

McMaster Children’s hospital coined the phrase “Play, practice, prepare, and be patient” in relation to the introduction of masks to children. We appreciate your support in helping our Ridley students with this adjustment. We know that their physical and emotional wellbeing are your top priorities as parents — and they are for Ridley, too. We are here to support you in your reintegration back to school and want to ensure you feel ‘Positively Prepared.’

Two friends in masks take a selfie.

Help children understand why we are wearing masks, and the importance of doing our best to protect ourselves and others in our community.

For more information on Ridley’s masking requirements for Grade 4 to 12 students and employees, please visit the Healthy Communities section of our Positively Prepared: Return to Campus Roadmap. A video featuring our Nurse Manager will soon be shared to help families understand proper mask etiquette from a health standpoint.

Admissions, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Upper School

Get to Know Your Prefects: Steven Q. ’20

Introducing Steven ’20 – a proud Tiger who has truly taken advantage of all that Ridley has to offer. Read about the challenges he overcame and the success he has experienced in the interview with Steven below.

Why were you most excited to attend Ridley when you first started?

When I first visited the campus, I was deeply attracted by the energy of the students and the community. Everyone was super friendly and there is always something to do and something happening. I simply couldn’t wait to throw myself into the action and get started. 

What makes you proud to be a Ridleian?

Definitively the unbreakable bond between Ridleians. There is no better feeling than to bump into an OR on the street or at a university that I visited and still be able to chat like old times while grabbing a coffee. The connection you build during your time at Ridley will be priceless later on in your life. It really gives you a sense of belonging and unity. Also, can’t forget Snake Dance! 

What is your favourite part of Ridley life?

My favorite part of Ridley life is strolling through the campus at daybreak, watching the sunrise as the fog slowly clears from the fields. Getting takeout with friends and eating them on the field as the sun slowly sets is definitely a bonus as well! Not to mention the sweet, sweet feeling when you see a level 7 on your test or scoring the killing blow on the tennis court. 

What has been your favorite Ridley experience/trip/memory?

Well… It’s hard to say because I have so many! I appreciate every day I spend at this school, and everyday holds something different and unique for me to discover. I have made so many irreplaceable memories with my friends, my teammates and my teachers it would take forever to count them. Therefore, I am afraid I can’t give you a good answer, not before my graduation. 

What is the best part of being in your boarding House?

The best part of belonging to a boarding house is the feeling of home.  I have been both a day and boarding student in Merritt North House, and the boys I have met and became friends with throughout the past three years are all very easygoing and friendly. The Head of House and Residential Dons are always there for you. The overall environment of my House will make you feel right at home. No matter if you returned tired from a heavy day of school or sports, you can always count on your housemates to relax together and play some pool in the common room. 

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Ridley?

It depends on how you define accomplishments. For me, I don’t like to define my accomplishments at this school by the prizes I won. They are merely a token of recognition. My real, greatest accomplishments at this school would be that I have really grown as an individual. In Grade 7, I was this shy student that wasn’t very good at English and was afraid of this foreign and vast country. Now I am a proud Ridley student, enrolling in full IB diploma, member of the 2019-20 Prefect team, president of the Ridley College Model United Nations society, and a senior member of the Choir. I have made the best memories of my high school life at this school, and I have learned indispensable transferrable skills that I will most definitely need even after I graduate from Ridley College. 

The Drowsy Chaperone, by Michelle Scrivener

Who is your favorite faculty or staff member and why?

Wow… You are putting me in a tight spot here. All the faculty and staff members around have all supported me in their own unique way. And I always appreciate their help and their dedication to educate every student here at Ridley, so that they may be better prepared for the world beyond the gates. 

What part of being a Prefect are you most excited for?

I am most excited to continue the legacy left by the previous Prefects while working with my current, fellow Prefects to innovate and create new student-led initiatives in order to make Ridley College a place enjoyed by both students and faculty members alike. 

How has Ridley prepared you for the future?

Ridley College has taught me so much. I learned teamwork and perseverance on the sports field, I honed my public speaking and debating skills on stage as an actor and debater. I polished my singing in Chapel along with rest of the Choir. I learned what it means to learn and flourish through my teachers, and how to love myself and others around me through my friends. 

What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?

DON’T PROCRASINATE!!!!!! Seriously, please, please, please, please, don’t procrastinate, especially if you are a boarder. It is so easy to get lost in all the stuff Ridley has to offer and you will wind up crunching away at a major project, two hours before its due… (ahem that guy definitively wasn’t me…) Ridley College is a school that places heavy emphasis on academic excellence, especially if you are planning on taking the full IB Diploma. And it only gets worse busier once you start Grade 10 and beyond. Make sure you make yourself a schedule and STICK TO IT. Ask teachers and your Head of House for help– they will more than happy to help you out because they care about your well-being. Only when you have an organized life can you enjoy all the wonderful things Ridley has to offer. 

Admissions, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Upper School

Get to Know Your Prefects: Sydney M. ’20

Introducing Sydney M. ’20 – a boarding student from Trinidad and Tobago, who has made a home for herself amongst a flock of flamingos. Read about her experience in the boarding house and what has made it her favourite part of Ridley life.

Why were you most excited to attend Ridley when you first started?

I was most excited to attend Ridley so that I could meet new people, make friends from all around the world and have the ability to learn about different cultures and lifestyles .

What makes you proud to be a Ridleian?

The sense of community at Ridley makes me so proud to be a Ridleian. Every single person that attends Ridley – whether it is the students, faculty or staff – is involved, encouraged and welcomed in some way and it is truly beautiful to see and to be a part of. 

What is your favourite part of Ridley life?

My favourite  part of Ridley life is the residential life.

What is the best part of being in your boarding house?

The best part of my boarding house are the girls that make up Gooderham West. I  have made so many friendships and had so many experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life and I owe it all to them. They are such a welcoming, easygoing, accepting and friendly group of people, and they are like my second family…we even share rooms! I am beyond grateful.

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Ridley?

My  greatest accomplishment at Ridley has been becoming a Prefect.

Who is your favourite faculty or staff member and why?

My favourite faculty member is my Advisor, Ms. Scott. I can go to her with any problem or situation I have and she will always give me great advice on how to go about the problem effectively and responsibly . She is very kind, giving, selfless and easy to talk to. She is like a mother away from home for me, not to mention she is a math teacher and helps me whenever I am struggling.

What part of being a Prefect are you most excited for?

I am most excited to work with the other members of the Prefect team, as it is a very diverse group of people and I think we can brainstorm and create some really fun and exciting activities for the student body to participate in. 

How has Ridley prepared you for the future?

Ridley has encouraged me to become an independent individual, taught me how to manage my time effectively and how to be aware of what is expected of me. I believe these new skills will help me in the future whether it’s in the workplace or beyond.

What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?

As I was a new student not too long ago, I believe you should look at all of your options and imagine yourself attending the school. I visited three schools including Ridley and from the minute I walked onto the beautiful campus of the school , I knew this was where I wanted to go. Meeting students, witnessing the classes and experiencing the sense of family and community at Ridley only cemented my ideas.

Admissions, Just for fun!, Ridley News, Tips for New Ridley College Students, Upper School

Get to Know Your Prefects: Catherine F. ’20

Meet Catherine ’20 – a talented student-athlete, who can often be found skating up and down the ice in the Tiger Arena or supporting her fellow Crocodiles in Gooderham East. Read more to discover the milestones and accomplishments that have influenced Catherine’s Ridley career.


Why were you most excited to attend Ridley when you first started?

I was most excited to start my journey at Ridley and meet new friends coming from all-over the world. I was also very thrilled of being part of its very well-known hockey programme and school curriculum. Ridley College is modern and well-organized in all aspects. The second I stepped under the arches of Ridley, I knew this is where I wanted to be. 

What makes you proud to be a Ridleian?

I am extremely proud of being a Ridleian for numerous reasons. Firstly, there is no better sense of community than at Ridley College – people care for each individual’s growth and flourishment.  Secondly, this school embraces modern philosophies, and new technologies for greater learning and experiences.  Lastly, I’ve realized that this school has an extremely great reputation.  When someone is wearing a Ridley sweater, she/he will cross paths with another that knows a Ridleian or has gone to Ridley themselves.  Day-to-day, I go to school knowing that someone cares about each other’s development and success.  I am extremely proud to be a Ridleian.

What is your favourite part of Ridley life?

I have enjoyed my hockey experience in many ways – the team experience, friendships, development and success. I made lifetime friends and memories. From bus rides to plane rides, we ended up creating a strong connection with trust and loyalty. I also loved social life at Ridley – we’ve had a lot of laughs and amazing interactions during events and activities such as school dances, café, Bradley shield competitions, etc. 

What has been your favorite Ridley experience?

My favorite Ridley memory was when my team and I went to play hockey in Vancouver. It was our first trip on the plane together. We were all so excited to go on a trip across Canada with each other. We had a lot of fun while visiting a suspension bridge – this activity helped us bond as a team. We were at first a little scared to walk on a moving bridge up in the air, but then we crossed it laughing. It was a key moment for the growth of our team and friendships.

What is the best part of being in your boarding House?

Gooderham East is a very positive environment. I would say that people make G-East one of the best Houses of campus.  My Head of House and Assistant Head of House are both very positive and outgoing people. They deeply care for every single girl in the House.  They guide us towards growth, for us to achieve a better self. They are always there to help us. Also, our house maintenance ladies are tremendously caring – they assure that Ridley is welcoming and homey. All in all, G-East is a House full of trust – this is my home away from home.

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Ridley?

I am extremely proud of having won the CISAA league championship with my hockey team.  We worked so hard throughout the year to develop our skills and team chemistry to achieve this goal. On a personal note, I have to mention my commitment to play hockey at Boston University after graduation. My coaches and teachers helped me achieve that goal by pushing me every single day to become a better student-athlete.

Who is your favourite faculty or staff member and why?

There is lots of special faculty and staff members; Mrs. Postma, my Head of House, being one of them. She is an exceptional person, being very positive and caring. She is always there to make me feel at home, and support me throughout the year. Her continuous smile helped me stay positive the whole year.

What part of being a Prefect are you most excited for?

Being a Prefect at Ridley College means a lot to me, particularly to be part of this special group of students. We, as a group, are very diverse. I have no doubt that we will all bring different ideas and perspective to the table. I am looking forward to doing different activities and initiatives with this group to help and improve the Ridley College community. I want to positively participate in others’ memorable time at Ridley College.

How has Ridley prepared you for the future?

Ridley helps me to be more open-minded to new ideas and new ways of learning.  The exceptional teaching staff give me tools and responsibilities to help me be more prepared for future challenges. The IB programme is very well-structure and challenging to further develop skills and knowledge for post-graduation experiences. On the other hand, my hockey coaches help me every day to improve and have an impact at the next level, not only as a hockey player, but also as a person. I’ve learned how to trust my abilities and knowledge.

What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?

My best advice for all prospective students would be to take advantage of all the resources offered at Ridley. If you always wanted to be part of a certain club, sign up for it, if you want to be part of an activity and it does not exist, create one. There are so many opportunities, so take advantage of them. Here, at Ridley College, we can go out of our personal comfort zone in many different ways. Always be in the moment and trust yourself. You can do more than you could ever think of. Make your experience at Ridley the best imaginable.