Meadowridge Student Since: Junior Kindergarten
House: Fraser

Describe your Meadowridge journey.

Meadowridge is the only academic environment I’ve ever known, so it feels like a place of real comfort and familiarity. One of the best parts is being able to walk down the elementary hallways and see teachers who remember me, greeting me with a smile or a high-five. That’s something I’ve really come to love. Over the years, I’ve been able to explore my own interests. I joined Student Council in Grade 7 and have since helped with communications and social media. Now, I’m the head of communications, leading a team of younger students. I also play a big part in yearbook, guiding a team of Grade 9 and 10 students as we build the yearbook together. Through these experiences, I’ve grown a lot and learned so much about how to promote school events—what works, what doesn’t—and that’s really fostered my love for communications.

When you think back to who you were when you started here, what feels most different now?

I used to be a shy, timid student. I was always the one being told to speak up more in class. Now, I’ve really grown into myself. I’ve learned that saying the wrong thing is better than saying nothing at all. That’s probably the most significant change—I’m less afraid to speak up and now actively participate in discussions. My teachers and friends have helped me get here, as well as the opportunities I’ve taken on, like yearbook and student council. Communications fills me with joy, and it’s something I truly love to do.

What’s something you believe now that you didn’t before attending this school?

I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help. When I was younger, I tried to handle everything on my own, but as I got older and faced more challenges—both academically and socially—I realized it’s better to reach out. I used to put a lot of pressure on myself to be perfect, but now I know you don’t have to be. I’ve had teachers who supported me and helped me understand that doing your best is enough; you don’t need to be perfect.

Can you describe a moment that changed how you see yourself as a learner or person?

Some of the bigger projects we did really changed me. The Personal Project was a big turning point—it made me realize my strengths and weaknesses as I started something on my own, with little to no guidance, and used my creativity to plan and execute what I wanted. It was similar with Theory of Knowledge (TOK). At first, I was really reluctant because the class didn’t seem structured enough for me to excel. But little by little, I learned that learning isn’t linear, and it’s okay not to get everything right away. It’s important to talk things over and form your own thoughts.

What’s one class, project, or experience that really stayed with you—and why?

In Grade 8, we created a children’s book, writing and illustrating our own stories. I wrote about my identity as both Canadian and Korean, and how I wasn’t fully in touch with Korean as a language. Growing up, I spoke Korean, but as I learned more English, I started feeling more comfortable with it. It was interesting to turn that experience into a story for children. I’ve always loved storytelling—I grew up writing and drawing on scraps of paper my mom still keeps in a box at home. Bringing all my ideas together into one book was really special. Ms. West was a particularly important teacher for me; she gave me the opportunity and helped me learn more about who I was becoming.

When did you feel most challenged here? What did you take from that experience?

Probably Grade 12—the Diploma Programme (DP) is rigorous and demanding. We had to juggle college applications, assignments, and prepare for mock exams all at once. That experience really challenged me to balance my priorities. Meadowridge helped me learn how to map out what’s important and tackle things step by step. It was rewarding to see all the time management skills I’d learned over the years come together during such a crucial part of my academic journey.

What skills do you feel you’re leaving with that will actually matter in your next chapter?

Definitely critical thinking. All the assignments we’ve had go beyond the surface level. Meadowridge encourages you to dig deeper and explore your interests in your own way. I want to become a journalist or a storyteller, so it’s important to think critically about what you’re writing or researching.

As you move on to your next chapter, what are you most proud of?

Beyond academics, I’ve grown a lot as a person and built meaningful connections that I’ll carry with me. I’ve found a sense of home here, and it means a lot to have a place you can always return to and rely on. I’ve tried to make the most of the resources the school offers—post-secondary counsellors, classes, enrichment programs, and the CAS program. These have helped me develop my interests and strengthened my college applications.

What’s something you learned here that you didn’t expect to?

I’ve learned the importance of the mundane. Growing up in a constant school environment, I didn’t see much value in repetition or ordinariness. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized there’s a lot to appreciate about living and growing up with the same people—you pick up meaningful moments from everyday life. I even wrote about this for a college essay. Whether it was during Week Without Walls (WWOW) trips or simply waking up and eating breakfast with my classmates, it’s those small moments that helped me form close bonds with my friends.

When did you feel most connected to the school community?

Spirit Days. I’ve attended every single one since Junior Kindergarten. I really enjoy the Houses and the friendly competition. Being on Council also gave me the chance to help lead Spirit Days. It’s a great tradition—not just for students, but for teachers and even parents who come out and connect with the community.

How would you describe the community here to someone who’s never experienced it?

I’d describe the community as tight knit but welcoming. New students might think it would be hard to make connections since many of us have grown up together, but we’re very open to new people. Because we’re so close, we know each other’s names and interests—even if we’re not best friends, we’re still friendly and always willing to help.

What are you doing next, and what excites you about it?

I’m going to Northwestern to study journalism, and I might minor in entrepreneurship or marketing. It feels really special to have this opportunity—I’ll get to hone my skills and experience the real-world side of my interests. While I’ll be sad to leave Meadowridge, I’m excited to experience a new environment. Northwestern has one of the best journalism schools and offers great study-abroad opportunities.

Why did you choose this path?

Growing up, I always felt I could write better than I could speak, and I found comfort in that. As I stepped out of my shell, I practiced both my written and verbal skills. Combining those interests led me to journalism. By creating a magazine, I realized my passion for building platforms where people like me can share their voices and art with the world.

What does graduating from Meadowridge mean to you?

Graduating from Meadowridge gives me a sense of closure and a chance to reflect on how much I’ve grown—and how much the school and the world have changed. It’s the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. I wouldn’t change a thing I’ve done. It’s bittersweet, but it makes me even more excited for what’s to come.