Bonners Ferry Rising Star

Mariah Rae. By Patty Hutchens.

Unlike most students her age, Bonners Ferry High School junior Mariah Rae has a pretty good idea of what career path she would like to take. Impacted by the challenges her cousin has faced throughout his life, she said she would like to pursue a career in nursing with an emphasis in Pediatrics. 

“When my cousin was two, he was diagnosed with Type I diabetes, and I decided that I wanted to be the type of person that cares for children with issues like diabetes and even extending to childhood disorders and cancer,” said Mariah.

To achieve her goal, Mariah will focus on completing her pre-requisites after high school graduation and then plans to attend Nursing School in Lewiston at Lewis and Clark State College.

There is no doubt she will succeed, as Mariah knows what it is like to balance a busy schedule. In addition to her studies, she participates in soccer, softball and is a member of the dance team. “I enjoy the unity of my soccer team, the game of softball and the dance performances,” said Mariah. But one of her most memorable experiences in high school to date has been her participation in the Junior Miss program. 

“I have had the privilege of making friends with girls I normally don’t talk to and making new relationships,” said Mariah. “I have also learned to find the best within myself and to work hard in everything that I do.”

One important lesson Mariah has learned and applied to several aspects of her life is perseverance. “Never ever give up, even when you feel like you’re not good enough to continue, because someone is always watching you and someone believes in you. Always do your best, try your hardest, and eventually all your hard work will pay off in the end,” she said.

Favorite food: “It is so hard to pick a favorite food, but I really enjoy my grandmother’s homemade chicken enchiladas.”

Favorite teacher: “My freshman English teacher, Mr. Arthur. He made learning English a blast, and he always had a way to help us remember the information. It was my favorite class to be in everyday.”

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