By Kathryn O'Hora ('26) & Payton Oustrich ('26)

On Monday, June 10th at 6pm inside Moosic's PNC Field, the Riverside Class of 2024 will walk across the stage after their name is called, receive a diploma from Mr. Lazor and become Riverside alumni. As tradition holds, the top four academically ranked seniors deliver a speech to the audience of friends, family, faculty, and their peers.  This year's top four are Emma Byrne, Sarah Wolfe, Zachary Chilek, and Tess Parchinski.

Emma Byrne, valedictorian, plans to attend the College of Charleston while majoring in biology. After undergraduate school, Emma plans to attend medical school in order to become a dermatologist. The advice that Emma could give to future students is to always work hard in school and in life. She says that “a person could be the most brilliant woman or man on Earth, but they would be unsuccessful if they did not add effort to their acuity.” She added, "Remember, hard work will always pay off in the end."

Sarah Wolfe, salutatorian, plans to attend Marywood University for a major in Computer Science and a minor in Astronomy. She also plans to continue performing with several university music ensembles and orchestras. In her spare time, she plans to continue photographing nature and the night sky. When asked what classes Sarah would recommend for future students, she noted that “a lot depends upon where you see yourself after high school.” She suggests focusing on the majors you see yourself pursuing. Overall, for upcoming students, Sarah advises trying a little bit of everything like the Chorus, the Drama Club, and the Ski Club. She said “with all of these great opportunities, everyone has the chance to find something they are passionate about.” 

Zachary Chilek, 3rd in his class, plans to study mechanical engineering at King’s College where he will play football. Zach’s advice for students is “to live in the moment and make sure you pause and take a look around you.” This is important at big events, but, more importantly, “the small moments.” He also says to “try to remember those images as much as possible because one day, sooner than you know, all those moments will be over.”

Tess Parchinski, 4th in her class, plans to study at the University of Delaware for finance/marketing. Tess’s advice for the future classes of Riverside would be “to get involved and don’t wait until senior year to get close with your class. This past year my class has really bonded, and I just wish we did sooner. The more clubs, activities, and friends you make, the better your high school experience will be!” 

These students are the true embodiment of well-rounded, each excelling inside and outside of the classroom.

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