Dixon High School March Student of the Month: Riley Bally

Riley Bally, 17, of Dixon, is the Dixon High School March Student of the Month. Her parents are Jaimie and Michelle Bally, and she has a sister, Amanda.

Favorite class: AP U.S. history. It was one of the most interesting classes I’ve ever taken, and I feel as if it gave me a deeper understanding of historical events and helped me make sense of both the past and present.

Least-favorite class: Geometry. Although some time has passed since I’ve taken it, I very clearly remember struggling with the material.

Favorite teacher: Mike Olson, because of his positive attitude and fun classes. He’s a great teacher and an inspiration to me as an artist and a person.

School activities in which you participate: I was a Building Lasting Impressions That Never Die leader, freshman mentor, manager for the boys tennis team and girls tennis team captain.

Civic, church, or other volunteer activities in which you participate: I have been involved in 4-H for more than 10 years.

What will you do after high school? I was awarded an Army ROTC scholarship and plan to attend Colorado State University or the University of Nevada - Reno to major in zoology, to become a veterinarian specializing in birds.

What is something you learned in high school that you think you’ll never use? I feel as if most of the things I’ve learned in high school can be applied in the real world in some manner; however, I believe some aspects of geometry I’ve learned I’ll likely never need to use, specifically certain formulas used in it because I do not plan on pursuing a career that specializes in that type of math.

If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be? I would increase the number of classes available to take. I would make it so that there would be a wider variety of AP classes available to students. I would also add some more foreign language courses.

If you could create any new class at your school, what would it be? I would choose a class that focuses solely on animals. I’ve always loved learning about animals; however, none of the science classes I have taken focused on them for very long.

What does it take to be a successful high school student? It takes perseverance and self-discipline. It can be easy to neglect classes and activities sometimes; however, having the determination to go through with difficult tasks leads to a successful student and person alike.

Do you have a job? I worked at Badazz Pizzeria and Grill until the pandemic rendered my position as a hostess unnecessary for the time being. My co-workers were my favorite part of my job, and they made my shifts a lot more entertaining.

How would you describe your group of friends? Unique, as each person brings something different to the table. There’s never a dull moment with them. They’re very caring, but also spontaneous and adventurous.

Who is your best friend? I have several close friends, so I feel as if it would be wrong to place one above the rest. What makes those close to me special is that they support my goals and aspirations and encourage me to be the best person I can be.

What do you do in your free time? My hobbies include painting, baking, raising chickens and geese, and playing tennis with my friends.

What kind of music are you listening to? A wide variety of music, but I particularly enjoy alternative and indie rock.

If you could go anywhere in the world for free, where would it be? I would travel to Switzerland, because the landscape is beautiful and the culture is fascinating.

What is your favorite childhood memory? When I played in my first Emma Hubbs tennis tournament as a tiny tot. The sport has impacted my life in so many ways that my first time on the court always will be near and dear to my heart.

What is the best way to cheer you up? Buy me ice cream.

What is your life’s philosophy? Everything is temporary, meaning you should remember that bad times pass and cherish the good times, because ultimately nothing lasts forever.

Do you have any pets? I have numerous house pets and livestock. My favorite pet is my cat, Sparta. She always hangs out with me while I paint or do homework.

What would you do if you received $1 billion all of a sudden? I would keep enough for my family and friends to live comfortably and donate the rest.

Favorites:

Musical Artist: The Smiths

Food: Clam chowder

TV Show: “Avatar: The Last Airbender”

Color: Purple

Movie: “Hacksaw Ridge”