Today, we are profiling Prefect ShanShan. She is a part-time boarding student from China who now resides in Toronto!

ShanShan was the top female in the CISAA Golf Qualifier for OFSAA and will represent Ridley at the OFSAA Women’s Golf Championships next month!

Why did you choose Ridley?

We were looking at private schools around the Toronto region and Ridley. I personally had
the best first impression at Ridley.

Did you feel prepared coming to Ridley?

I came to Ridley in grade 6. It was definitely a big change for me as I was at a public school for 2 years prior and before that, I lived in China. Culturally and socially, there were some aspects that took some getting used to, but Ridley is a great (safe) environment to make those changes.

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I plan to go to university in the States and go on at least one Study Abroad program. Hopefully, I can continue to play golf and play piano and the flute.

What has been your greatest challenge thus far at Ridley?

The jump from grade 10 to IB. I felt that I was not prepared for the IB Diploma Program and it took the first year (maybe still) to become accustomed to the dynamics of being an IB student at a school as busy as Ridley.

What has been your favourite Ridley experience (thus far) and your favorite part of Ridley (chapel, rowing, your house)?

Snake Dance – Every year, especially the last one. Snake Dance is something unique to Ridley and no one can take that experience and memory away because it is difficult to explain and only Ridleians can truly understand.

What are the most important things you have learned from your time at Ridley?

Fears were meant to be destroyed.

Traditions are good – they create an identity that seperates Ridley from other schools.

“In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take, relationships we were afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make.”

What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?

Don’t be afraid to try something new and voice your opinions.

The only way to truly experience Ridley is to be open-minded to every opportunity. Guaranteed, you will do something you never thought you would.

Your friends will be from all around the world – take advantage of this because it leads to great food and amazing vacations.