Graduate 2024 – Juvienne Rimando Juvienne Rimando’s is graduating from St. Joeseph’s Catholic High School. She and her family moved to Canada from the Philippines when she was just five, living in Hamilton until moving to St. Thomas during COVID. Arriving at St. Joe’s during the COVID pandemic was a challenging experience for Juvienne. “Being a new student was very nerve-wracking for me, especially since I didn’t know anyone here at all,” she shares. The pandemic added an extra layer of difficulty in making friends, but by grade 10, she began to find her footing. “I made a bunch of friends and got to know many of the teachers here,” she recalls. Juvienne’s involvement at St. Joe’s extended beyond aca- demics. Her dedication and enthusiasm were evident in her participation in various school activities. She was part of the Youth Advisory Council, discussing diverse cultures within the school, and she emceed events, such as the open house for incoming students. “I told them what I really liked about the school. I honestly love St. Joe’s because everyone is very inclusive and kind.” Due to a knee injury, she focused on extracurricular activities rather than sports. “I joined the book club, health and wellness club, and the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program in Health and Wellness,” she says. The SHSM program allowed her to explore her passion for the dental field through co-op placements, giving her invaluable hands-on experience. “I got to educate myself about what it’s like to be in a dental office,” she explains. It is Juvienne’s goal to become a dentist after she finishes her post-secondary education.
One of her fondest memories includes the support she received from the school staff. “I want to give a shout-out to Mrs. Ursic, my amazing English teacher, and to Mrs. Gillet, the librarian. They have been very kind and patient,” Juvienne notes. These relationships helped shape her into a confident and outgoing individual. Outside of school, Juvienne enjoys reading, travelling, and spending time in nature with her family. “Reading gives me a sense of peace,” she says. This balance helps her manage the stress of being a high school student. Looking ahead, Juvienne has committed to the Health Science Co- op program at the University of Waterloo, a competitive program that aligns with her aspiration to enter dental school. Her journey at St. Joe’s has equipped her with academic knowledge, personal growth, and confidence. “St. Joe’s is a great and inclusive school that definitely shaped who I am as a person.”
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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