It’s hard to believe this moment has arrived—four years of high school are coming to an end...so bittersweet!
Looking back over his Realms high school experience, Riley will never forget the long and arduous—but always rewarding—fall backpacking trips that took him to the Uintas, LaSals, Sawtooths, and Wind River mountains. On these trips, Riley found he was able to challenge himself, develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world, and foster lifelong friendships.
In addition to thriving in Realms’ outdoor programs, Riley learned and accomplished many things during his high school years. His school projects included making a stained glass window, building a lap steel guitar, and taking industrial photographs around Salt Lake City. At Realms’ exhibitions, Riley composed and performed several original songs on his guitar and played many covers with his school band, the Dandies. He is the recipient of several school awards, including The Soul of Realms, Athlete, Outdoor Leadership, Scholar, Musician, and Social Scientist.
The Dandies
While at Realms, Riley traveled to Ecuador, Thailand, Spain, Greece, and Albania. He volunteered in the Bilsa Biological Research Station, helped with reforestation and conservation efforts as well as studied the diverse ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands. In Thailand, he went spelunking in Bam Than and rock climbing in Tonsai. While he has loved all of his Realms trips, he believes his week living with a Navajo family on the Navajo Reservation was one of his most memorable experiences.
After graduation, Riley plans to take a gap year during which he hopes to work as a river guide, write songs, and climb a lot. He plans to attend the University of Utah beginning fall 2021.