Rae-Maryse at the Celebration of Scholars event on April 19th, 2018
What can you recall about your first introduction to York House?
It was evident that I would be challenged to push beyond my limitations while exploring and discovering my personal potential. The teachers at York House were always on hand to provide extra tutorials outside of regular class time and it is this type of dedication and care that provided me the opportunity to excel academically.
Describe how you felt when you were awarded the June Brown Cliff Scholarship?
I was ecstatic and completely overjoyed. This is not an opportunity I have taken for granted nor is it one that can be easily measured. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Cliff family and the foundation sponsors for making a significant difference in my life.
What was your first day of school like?
I will always remember the first day I walked into the school through the cafeteria (if you know me I love food and I had to check out the menu). I vividly remember that day. I was nervous and frankly overwhelmed. As I walked through a student approached me and with a big friendly smile she said “Hi! Are you new to Grade 8?” I answered a small “yes” and was pleasantly surprised when she opened her arms and gave me a big hug. The sense of belonging I felt then still resonates today.
How did you immerse yourself in the YHS community?
I served as class president, student ambassador, sports head, and had the honour of being elected by my peers and teachers to serve the student body as Head Girl. York House offers many extracurricular activities that are so important for building team and communication skills.
You graduated in 2009. What did you do after YHS?
I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from Thompson Rivers University, and I am currently completing a Masters of Professional Accounting at the University of Saskatchewan. I am scheduled to write the Common Final Examination (CFE) in September 2018 to designate as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA).
Volunteering and giving back is important to you. Describe your work with Big Sisters.
Volunteering with Big Sisters has equally benefited me as it has my little sister. I have a great desire to empower young girls to reach their full potential by cultivating individual strengths, building resilience to social pressures that impact body image, and helping to nurture a positive social environment. It has been a rewarding two years.
You were recently back at York House for our Celebration of Scholars event. What were your impressions?
It was a privilege to witness the words shared by the strong, kind, and courageous young women at YHS. It still stands true that every girl is encouraged to continue her pursuit of excellence in academics and character and reach beyond her limitations. I still feel a strong sense of community as I spoke with current and alumnae, staff, and administration.