How did FVS shape you from when you first enrolled to when you graduated?

From my first visit to FVS to graduation, I knew I was in a special place. The natural environment combined with a focus on learning was intoxicating. Relationships between students and faculty were like none I had ever experienced or even thought possible. I learned how to interact with a wide range of people with common interests, and with individuals who were different culturally than what I was used to growing up in Seattle. These differences taught me how important communication was and to have patience with myself and others. The School setting taught me that I was much more than a score on a test; that I could be an athlete, a scholar, a hard worker, and a good person. My teachers were willing to take the time to understand how I learned best, and without this dedication to my education, I would not have been as successful as I am today. By the end of my senior year, I left FVS with more than an incredible education and lifelong friendships. I became more open-minded and able to deal with the ever-growing challenges the world sends my way.

In what ways did Fountain Valley support your goals and prepare you for your experience as a collegiate athlete?

Coming from Seattle, there were very few success stories about local hockey players (at the time). FVS offered me an education that blew my local school’s curriculum out of the water. I learned how to balance my demanding athletic schedule, a difficult academic course load, and social life before entering college, a challenge many college freshmen face. Some of my favorite memories surrounded teachers caring about my extracurricular activities. I felt supported by my peers through bad games and good games, and they gave me the confidence I needed to exhibit and learn leadership qualities in the classroom and on the ice. FVS taught me to be patient and believe in myself, even if my dreams felt too big at that time. 

how did Fountain Valley school’s programs, culture, student life offerings, and other moments contribute to your growth as a leader?

FVS is more than just a high school education. It helped me become a person who could find success in the real world. Everyone experiences failure at different points in their lives. FVS taught me, however, that it is my response to those failures that matters most, as I learned to lead and comfort those in need. At FVS I could be more than just an athlete; I could be a student, captain of the hockey team, and a residential assistant shaping new experiences. And, I was encouraged to develop new interests of my own, too. I still show people the bug box I created as part of a class project showcasing the local environment. 

When it comes to learning beyond four walls, how did FVS expand your horizons?

People can live their entire lives with the same mindset, but it is those who are willing to challenge themselves and others who find the most success. My experiences at FVS were filled with real-life learning, as I developed people skills and acquired various educational tools I still use today. The faculty at FVS help students understand that there is more than just one way to solve a difficult problem, and how to use the resources within their reach.

Why do you feel that attending a boarding school was the right decision for you?

Attending boarding school was the best decision for me and my parents would agree. Being hundreds of miles away from my family taught me when to ask for help and when to be my own person. I was responsible for my own schedule and making sure I completed assignments on time. Much like the college experience, I was able to learn from my mistakes and celebrate my successes. While it was challenging to be away from my family, I found a new family and support within the FVS community.

How do you stay connected with your FVS friends and the broader alumni network today?

During my years at FVS, I was lucky that – every school year – I could return to the same teachers and friends. When I graduated, social media played a large part in connecting with past classmates and receiving support from afar. I know that some of my friendships from FVS will last a lifetime, and I have a forever support network and place to call home.