Introducing Will Cowherd ’17 – a Prefect who has seized every opportunity that Ridley has presented him, and intends on doing the same in his final year of high school.
Why did you choose Ridley?
I chose to go to Ridley because it was always a dream of mine, ever since my sisters first attended. When the opportunity to go to Ridley presented itself to me in Grade 5, I took it and never looked back.
Did you feel prepared coming to Ridley?
I’ve been at Ridley since Grade 5, so when I first came, I didn’t really know what to expect. After starting at Ridley, I realized it truly was an amazing place.
Who is your favourite faculty member and why?
One of my favourite faculty members at Ridley would have to be Mr. McNiven. He has been my advisor since Grade 10 and has been a great help to me at Ridley over the years. He has helped me with schoolwork, sports and community service, on many occasions. He is always willing to help, which is why he is such a great advisor.
What has been your greatest challenge thus far at Ridley?
My greatest challenge at Ridley has been managing my time with all my schoolwork, sports and extracurricular activities. Ridley is a busy place and can quickly get overwhelming if you do not stay on top of all your work. This is also why Ridley is such a great place; it teaches you great time management skills and how to be an efficient worker.
What has been your greatest accomplishment thus far at Ridley?
One of my biggest accomplishments at Ridley so far has been winning the MPHL championship with the First Boys hockey team. Playing on the First Boys hockey team was always a dream of mine since I started at Ridley, so winning a championship with the team was amazing.
What has been your favourite Ridley experience?
Ridley has given me the chance to experience many amazing things, but I think the best experience that Ridley has made possible for me is travel. Since going to Ridley, I’ve gone on a service trip to Asia and an exchange to Australia. These experiences are ones I’ll remember for the rest of my life and they wouldn’t have been possible without Ridley.
What is your favourite part of Ridley life?
My favourite part about Ridley life is exactly that – Ridley life. Ridley is so much more than just a school; it’s a lifestyle and that’s what makes Ridley so great. You do everything there – from playing sports, to going to class and eating all your meals. The best part is that you get to do all of that, while being surrounded by great people and great friends.
What part of being a Prefect are you most excited for?
The part of being a Prefect that I am most excited for is to be able to help younger students discover everything that this school has to offer. Ridley is an amazing place that has many amazing opportunities to explore.
How has Ridley prepared you for the future?
Ridley has not only prepared me for the future by giving me an amazing education, but also by teaching me how to be a well-rounded individual. From learning about cultures as a result of traveling or managing my time with a crazy schedule, Ridley has prepared me more and more everyday for the future.
What advice would you give prospective students about Ridley?
My advice for future Ridleians is to take every opportunity that Ridley has to offer you. Whether it’s travelling or playing sports, try everything that you possibly can. You don’t want any opportunities to pass you by.