International Student Spotlight: Ruiqi "Rickie" Gao '22

Every month, an international student is put into the spotlight for going beyond expectations and excelling at Saint Viator High School. Our first student spotlight of the 2021-22 academic year is Ruiqi "Rickie" Gao '22. Ruiqi has not only thrived in her coursework, but she also continues to excel in the fine arts. Last year, she designed our Lunar New Year mugs, and this year, she is enrolled in multiple art classes, including AP Art, 3D Art Design, and Advanced 3D Art Design. Read more about her work ethic and academic success from faculty members below.

"I had the pleasure of teaching Rickie for two consecutive years in Theology classes. During this time, I recognized not only Rickie's amazing and hard work ethic but also her sincerity as a person in all that she said or did. Rickie always applied herself in my class and whenever she had questions, she never hesitated to ask me questions for clarification. Rickie is a wonderful student for any teacher to have in the classroom. Even more so, she is an extraordinary young lady with amazing potential and she truly appreciates the opportunity to learn new subjects like Theology."
- Mr. Brian Hansen

"Rickie is a very conscientious student. She continued to work hard and met up with all expectations even while she chose to learn remotely during the pandemic."
- Mrs. Shirley Dias, Science Department

"Rickie is always smiling and positive, not to mention she is a hard worker - she is like a ray of sunshine in class!"
- Mrs. Cheryl Nowak, Math Department

"Rickie always goes above and beyond in all she does. She has grown in leaps and bounds since her freshman year. I can always rely on Rickie to turn in exemplary work, but also help her peers do the same. She has a calm and welcoming attitude, and I am grateful to have had her in class for two full years!"
- Ms. Megan O'Neill, English Department

"Ruiqi is incredibly talented, and she continually amazes me with her artistic skill."
-Mr. Matt Gruenfeld, Fine Arts Department

"Rickie is an excellent student. She does a great job on all of her work." 
- Mrs. Kristen Jordan, Social Studies Department

"Rickie is an extremely talented student and artist. She is willing to take risks and attempt projects with no clear directions. She is always able to work out something beautiful!"
-Mr. Austin Bellino, International Program Director




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Located in Arlington Heights, IL, Saint Viator High School is a private, co-ed, Catholic school for grades 9-12. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.