School & Program: Geography & Aviation at the University of Waterloo
Born: Maple Ridge, BC
Meadowridge Student Since: Grade 8
Meadowridge House: Alouette

Tell us about your time at Meadowridge. 

I was born in Maple Ridge and spent my childhood here, but my family moved to California when I was in the first grade. Years later, I got a letter from my Kindergarten classmate, Leia, who told me all about her new school. She said it was a “great community” – I still have that letter somewhere! – and how much she liked her school. It sounded interesting, so I asked my parents if I could go. We moved, and that’s that. Now, I’m graduating from Meadowridge School. When I arrived, I immediately noticed the small class sizes and how close-knit everyone was. During my time here, I was able to get involved in many clubs and new experiences. I got involved with the Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) and learned so much. I also joined badminton in Grade 8 and enjoyed being a student coach in Grade 12.

What’s it like being a student at Meadowridge? 

The word “community” is a nice way to explain our school. We’re all very connected and support each other. There are many positives about a small school. It’s not too big, which helps us be more engaged in class and the community overall. I’m also close with my teachers. In class, it’s easier to ask questions. Outside of class, it’s easier to ask for help. 

What will you always remember from your time here?

The Indian Arm WWOW trip in Grade 10. It was soaking wet, like pouring rain. I had never canoed for 12 hours straight. We were all talking and laughing in the beginning, but after the first few hours, everyone started being quiet. At the time, I remember thinking, I’m never doing this again. But it was a good memory, and now I think I might try it again. We made great bonds working together, canoeing, and pushing through the rain. One afternoon, we even took a one-hour hike to the top of a waterfall—it was so worth it! 

Tell us about an experience that shaped you.

Badminton coaching was my Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) project. I had never done coaching, so I stepped outside my comfort zone. At first, the younger students were hard to coach, but the teachers helped me. I slowly learned and led practices. It shaped me because I’m usually shy, but it helped me change and be loud.

Choosing a school and program is quite the journey—tell us yours.   

Aviation has always been something I have wanted to do. Growing up, my parents took me travelling quite a bit and I remember always looking up to the pilots. When I decided to pursue aviation in post-secondary, I realized there weren’t many aviation programs. When I found the University of Waterloo’s Geography & Aviation Program, I applied, thinking I wouldn’t get in. I continued to apply to other schools and didn’t even tell my parents I applied. When I got my acceptance email, I thought oh my goodness! It’s a unique program, and I’ll graduate with a degree and a commercial pilot license. 

What are you most looking forward to in the year ahead? In the future? 

I’m looking forward to meeting new people and living in a new environment. Of course, I’m also excited to learn and for the program. I’m a bit scared, but I will surely enjoy it. I’ve heard it is pretty cold—I like the snow! In the future, I look forward to working as a commercial pilot, hopefully in Japan, and travelling as much as I can. 

What words of wisdom would you pass on to Meadowridge students? 

Que Sera, Sera. We tend to worry about what will come in our future, but whatever will be will be. Work hard, but not too hard, and don’t worry too much. Growing up, my mom always played Que Sera, and I never really knew what it meant. Now, it’s something that really resonates with me. Take a deep breath, slow down, and things will be okay.