REVIEW OF R.I.S.E. Academy BY Alum, Adine Emerimana

Overall Experience 5

My time at R.I.S.E. Academy was a defining chapter in my personal and academic journey. What stands out most to me is how the school didn’t just focus on academics, it focused on building character, confidence, and a sense of purpose. R.I.S.E. helped me come out of my shell. As someone who once considered themselves introverted, I learned how to step into leadership roles, speak with confidence, and connect meaningfully with others. One of the things I liked best was the way the staff truly believed in us. They pushed us to aim higher, speak up, and show up as our best selves, even when we didn’t fully see our potential yet. The environment was empowering. It made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to, and that kind of support is rare. If I could change anything, it would be to add more platforms for students to apply their leadership skills outside the classroom, maybe more real-world projects or entrepreneurial initiatives. Still, R.I.S.E. gave me the foundation I needed to build on those dreams myself. I absolutely believe R.I.S.E. prepared me for what came next. Entering university, starting a business, and navigating adult responsibilities would have felt much more overwhelming without the foundation of confidence and discipline I developed there. For anyone thinking of joining R.I.S.E. Academy, I’d say: be ready to grow. Be ready to find your voice, challenge yourself, and discover passions you didn’t know you had. It’s not just a school, but it’s a place where you rise, and you rise with people who truly want to see you win.

School Leadership 5

Looking back at my time at R.I.S.E. Academy, one of the most distinctive aspects was the leadership and administration. The staff, especially figures like Rebecca, stood out not just for their positions but for the way they led with purpose, compassion, and high expectations. The leadership was deeply involved in students’ lives, not from a place of control, but from a genuine desire to see each of us grow into our potential. As a student, I felt respected. That wasn’t just my experience; many of my peers felt the same. The administration treated students like future leaders. Our voices were heard, our ideas mattered, and our challenges were met with empathy. That kind of environment made it easy to respect them in return. They responded to problems thoughtfully. Discipline wasn’t about punishment, it was about accountability and growth. When issues came up, the leadership was firm but fair, always reinforcing that every action was an opportunity to learn. That helped maintain a positive, safe school culture. Their communication was strong, both with us as students and with our families. Parents were kept in the loop, and the school made an intentional effort to partner with families, not just inform them. It felt like we were part of a larger community working together. Most importantly, the leadership instilled confidence. Even when we struggled, we knew someone believed in us. That belief made a lasting impact. For prospective families, I would say this: if you’re looking for a school where the administration doesn’t just manage students but invests in their futures, this is it. Expect high standards, intentional relationships, and a leadership team that models what it means to rise and help others do the same.

Teaching 5

The teaching at R.I.S.E. Academy was one of the most impactful parts of my experience. I was genuinely happy with the quality of instruction I received, teachers weren’t just knowledgeable; they were deeply invested in how we learned and who we were becoming. The dynamic between teachers and students struck a unique balance. It was respectful and professional, but also warm and approachable. You never felt like just another student in the classroom; you felt seen. Teachers took the time to understand your learning style, strengths, and even the personal obstacles you might be facing, and they worked with you, not just around you. What stood out most was their passion. Whether they were teaching math, English, or leadership, you could feel how much they cared about the subject and about making it meaningful to us. Their passion was contagious, and it helped many of us, including me, develop a genuine love for learning. They communicated clearly and gave feedback that was more than just grades, it was guidance. They helped us grow by challenging us, but they also celebrated our growth along the way. You were never just corrected, you were encouraged, and that made all the difference. One teacher in particular had a major impact on me, not just academically but personally. Their belief in me helped me believe in myself at a time when I was still figuring out who I was and what I was capable of. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and into opportunities I wouldn’t have pursued on my own. That kind of mentorship stays with you. For prospective families, I would say this: the teachers at R.I.S.E. are more than instructors, they’re mentors, motivators, and role models. They teach with heart and purpose, and they create a classroom culture where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to rise above even their own expectations.

Academics 5

The academic program at R.I.S.E. Academy is intentional, rigorous, and deeply rooted in personal growth. It’s not just about getting good grades; it’s about cultivating critical thinking, self-awareness, and purpose. One of the school’s greatest academic strengths is its ability to challenge students in a way that’s both supportive and empowering. The focus is on developing the whole student, not just as a learner, but as a leader. The school created an academic culture that was encouraging rather than competitive. Students wanted to succeed, but there wasn’t a pressure to outdo one another. Instead, there was a sense of community; we helped each other study, celebrated each other’s progress, and learned how to grow together. That kind of atmosphere taught us that success doesn’t have to be solitary, and that’s a lesson I carry with me to this day. Academically, I always felt challenged, but never overwhelmed. The teachers and staff made sure we had the tools and support we needed to rise to those challenges. Whether it was through engaging class discussions, creative assignments, or one-on-one support, I was pushed to think deeper and stretch beyond my comfort zone. If there is one area for growth, I’d say it could be in expanding the variety of advanced electives or more opportunities for interdisciplinary projects. But even then, R.I.S.E. found ways to expose us to real-world skills like public speaking, time management, leadership, and collaboration, things that go far beyond the classroom and have prepared me for both university and entrepreneurship. I left R.I.S.E. feeling confident, capable, and ready. What prepared me most was the mindset the academic program helped instill in me: a mindset of curiosity, discipline, and ownership over my own learning journey. That has been invaluable. For prospective families, I’d say: if you’re looking for a school where your child will be academically nurtured, personally challenged, and surrounded by a culture that values growth over perfection, R.I.S.E. Academy is a place that will prepare them not just for the next step, but for life.

School Life 5

Overall, my experience with student life at R.I.S.E. Academy was overwhelmingly positive. I genuinely enjoyed going to school there. It was a place where I felt motivated, supported, and part of something meaningful. The environment wasn’t just focused on academics, it was focused on who we were becoming as people. What contributed most to my quality of life was the strong sense of community. It felt safe to be yourself, to try new things, to lead, and even to make mistakes. There was a warmth in the school culture that made it easy to build friendships and grow as a person, especially for someone like me who started off introverted but wanted to step out of their comfort zone. The leadership and teachers played a huge role in this; they treated us with respect and genuinely believed in our potential. They created a space where we were challenged, yes, but never in a way that felt depleting. Instead, it was inspiring. Most students seemed happy to be there. There were moments of stress as there are in any school, but it wasn’t the kind of toxic stress you find in hyper-competitive environments. Instead, it was the kind of pressure that came from wanting to do well because you cared. Passion was a common thread, whether it was for learning, leadership, creativity, or community involvement. If I could suggest an improvement, it would be to offer more outlets for students to relax, recharge, or explore non-academic interests, whether through clubs, wellness activities, or casual student-led events. While the school fostered ambition, I think even more emphasis on balance would elevate the student experience further. For prospective families, I’d say student life at R.I.S.E. Academy is about growth, connection, and purpose. Your child won’t just go to school, they’ll feel like they belong to something bigger. And that sense of belonging can truly change everything.

Admissions 5

If you’re thinking about applying to R.I.S.E. Academy, my biggest piece of advice is this: come in with an open mind and a willingness to grow. R.I.S.E. is more than just a school, it’s a place that will challenge you to rise to your potential, even in ways you may not expect. If you’re serious about becoming a better version of yourself, this is the right place to be. From what I remember of the admissions process, it wasn’t designed to be stressful or intimidating. In fact, it felt personal and purposeful. The admissions team wasn’t just trying to check boxes, they were genuinely trying to get to know me and understand if the school was the right fit for both sides. That mindset made a huge difference. I didn’t feel like I was being judged; I felt like I was being welcomed into a conversation about my future. R.I.S.E. looks for students who are motivated, curious, and open to transformation, not just the ones who have everything figured out. So, be honest in your application. Let your personality and goals come through. Don’t be afraid to share your challenges as well as your achievements. That’s what makes you real, and that’s what R.I.S.E. values. If you’re accepted, be prepared for a school that invests in you deeply. You’ll be encouraged, held accountable, and given space to lead in ways that will impact you long after you leave.

University placement and counselling 5

The university counselling program at R.I.S.E. Academy played an important role in helping me navigate the next steps after high school. I felt supported in many ways, there were staff who truly cared about our futures and were available to answer questions, review applications, and encourage us to aim high. I appreciated the one-on-one attention and how the counselling team made an effort to understand my goals beyond just academics. Where the program really helped was in boosting my confidence. I didn’t feel alone in the process. Whether I was unsure about my personal statement or narrowing down my options, there was always someone to talk to who could guide me without judgment. That said, I believe there’s room for growth. I would’ve benefited from even earlier and more structured planning, especially around timelines, scholarship opportunities, and competitive programs. For a student like me, who wanted to pursue a dual major, start a business, and aim for top-tier schools, having a detailed long-term strategy from Grade 11 onward would’ve been extremely helpful. In hindsight, I did feel prepared enough to apply to my first-choice program, but it was also because I put in a lot of independent research and effort on my own. I think future students would benefit from more exposure to university workshops, mock interviews, and mentorship from alumni who’ve gone through the process. For prospective families, I’d say the support is there, but take initiative, ask questions early, and be proactive. R.I.S.E. will meet you with encouragement and help guide your journey if you’re willing to take ownership of it.