Before the bells chimed for the last time, the Prefect team for the 2019-20 school year was announced, allowing for celebrations to take place and planning for September to begin. These student-leaders took the time to share a little about themselves, so that over the summer months, Ridleians, both new and old, would have a chance to get to know the Tigers that would be guiding them through the year.

Up first, is Angela ’19 – a Mandeville Duck with a remarkable voice that she uses to not only perform for her fellow Tigers, but to speak up for those in need and to spread awareness for causes near and dear to her heart. When she isn’t on stage or singing in the Chapel, she can be found on the volleyball court or the rugby pitch. Check out the interview below to see what makes her proud to be a Ridleian.

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

I had never been in a boarding house before Ridley, so I was really excited to be introduced to that type of environment. As well, entering Ridley as a freshman was a bit nerve racking because I had also never been in high school before. I was mainly excited to try new things, put myself out there and enjoy the high school experience.

What makes you proud to be a Ridleian?

I am proud to be a Ridleian because of all the things this school stands for. Whether it be through its awareness-raising initiatives, its work to give back to the Niagara community, its conscious effort to acknowledge diversity and spirit. This school always endeavors to be better and as a result, all those who interact with each other here (including myself) are made to be better, more socially-aware people, who are truly prepared to enter the real world and be consumed in service. 

What is your favourite part of Ridley life?

For me, it’s a tie between sports and the arts. As much as I love performing and expressing myself (through artistic means), nothing can beat the communal experience of being on a sports team. As a team, you win and lose together and playing sports is just another way that Ridleians can form relationships with those that they otherwise would not interact with as much. In the same breath, the performing arts are my passion and this school has presented me with a lot of opportunities to express myself through singing, acting, public speaking, etc. 

What has been your favorite Ridley experience?

My favourite Ridley experience was definitely my first time at camp in 2016. To me, that whole experience was just an incredible introduction to the spirit and sense of community that this school has. At camp, I made a lot of great friendships with girls in and outside of my House. It was a judgment and care-free environment and laughter-filled experience that really set the tone for a great first year at Ridley. 

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

The best part of being in Mandeville is the girls. They are all my sisters from other misters! Every year, I meet more charismatic, diverse and intelligent girls and I get to learn a lot from them. Although we may have our challenges, I can positively say that I’ve formed some beautiful relationships with a lot of the girls in my house and I’m so appreciative of my school family.

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Ridley?

I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot at this school. As I said before, I’ve been exposed to a lot of opportunities that I otherwise would not have had the luxury of experiencing. My accomplishments range from being in academics to being in co-curriculars (cadets) and in sports (volleyball and rugby). However, I think my greatest accomplishment has been learning to take risks, mainly putting myself out there despite my fear of judgment. As I’ve spent more years at Ridley, I’ve learned that judgment will always be their (just like in the real world) and the only person who can let that judgment impact me or limit me is myself. So, even though I’m not fully there, my greatest accomplishment at this school has been being unapologetically authentic in the manner I choose to present myself to the school community. 

Who is your favourite faculty or staff member and why?

There are many faculty members at this school who I admire for the different ways that they have impacted me. This includes my past and present teachers, coaches, activity leaders, Head of House, duty team members and the Assistant Head of House. Nevertheless, if I had to pick one person, it would have to be my advisor, Mrs. McNiven. She is the most giving, caring and understanding person I’ve ever met, and she does so much for the girls and I without acknowledging the gravity of her impact. She also knows how to set me straight when I need it and despite how much I may act like I hate it, I love her sarcastic wit. 

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

I’m most excited to see what goes into planning the communal events that we have at this school. I know it’ll be hard balancing academics, activities, sports and my personal sanity. Still, Prefectship is another learning experience I am more than willing to take on. I’m also really excited to give my chapel talk because I will be speaking about a topic that matters a lot to me and that (I hope) is applicable to the experiences of many others at Ridley.

How has Ridley prepared you for the future?

Time-Management! Our schedules are packed at this school and I think that is very fitting because that’s how it is going to be when we all get jobs and/or go university. Ridley teaches you a lot about self-discipline and the importance of having routine while embracing change and acknowledging your physical and emotional capabilities. 

What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?

To me, being at Ridley has been about never saying “no” for selfish reasons. It’s perfectly okay to take a step back and acknowledge when you need to have some time to yourself. However, I would say that you should never let your fears of judgment of criticism limit your actions. Take risks, don’t be afraid to fail and share who you are with the members at this school because it will all be a learning experience about the world around us.