Grade 12 student Adrian Romeo found her place at Clearwater Secondary school on the field, in the science lab and in the council room.

Adrian wanted to help younger kids to find their passions - and found a way to do it.

”You don't know what interests you until you try it,” said Adrian. “I found my love for science in Mr. Francis's class, and I really wanted to get younger kids excited about science, too.”

Inspired by her experience in Youth Week, a yearly event at Clearwater Secondary, Adrian applied for a grant through the United Way and started her own after-school program for local elementary students.

For two years running, Adrian, ran the Youth Engagement Project – a program that included lessons in everything from cooking to art to physical education and of course, science. “I had to find local experts to teach the workshops,” says Adrian.

She persuaded a chef and an artist to join her team and teachers from Clearwater were more than willing to pitch in. Adrian also worked closely with the community co-ordinator at Raft River Elementary school. More than 30 students attended the program each week.

Science teacher Gabe Francis is proud of Adrian's accomplishments. “Adrian's is a great example of a superb grad class,” said Gabe. “The kids are engaged in school, their extra-curricular and their plans for the future.”

“Watching kids learn is really amazing," said Adrian. "I have been inspired by Mr. Francis, and these kids so much.” When asked what she wants to do with her future, Adrian laughs and answers: “A high school teacher, of course.”

Next year, Adrian will start the next chapter of her life at Thompson Rivers University. We expect to see her changing classrooms and motivating students soon.

Learn more about B.C. student success stories.