Since their lives have been connected from the very beginning, it is fitting that twin sisters Natalie and Mikaela Rude have been named co-valedictorians for LCBI’s class of 2021.
Natalie and Mikaela are from Calgary and have attended LCBI for two years, continuing the family legacy which includes their dad, grandparents, older sister and many cousins. Although there was certainly family support in heading to LCBI, there was no pressure. Mikaela explained, “My parents were insistent that it be my own decision and never pressured me. They made sure I knew I could stay in Calgary if I wanted.” She has very good memories of her former school so she didn’t take the decision lightly, but is “endlessly grateful” for the decision she made. “LCBI has changed my life for the better and given me opportunities I never dreamed of.” Natalie agreed saying, “Our parents were supportive of whatever we chose, but I could not imagine doing anything else.”
The pandemic certainly impacted their experience at LCBI. They had to finish their grade 11 year at home with online classes, and even when in-person classes resumed in September, some extracurricular activities could not take place. But the girls said it made them cherish their time at school all the more. Natalie explained, “I learned to appreciate the small things in life. I experienced this in our ability to make any situation fun and simply enjoy each other’s company. I thought I would be more sad about what we were missing out on, but you forget about those things when you just enjoy the present.” Mikaela remarked, “Losing three months of our grade 11 year and valuable time with our friends has definitely made us all so much more aware of how special LCBI is. I think we went into this year with a strong determination to make the most of it and build relationships. We missed each other so much after being apart for five months and that fueled the fire to put all our energy into having an amazing year.”
Fond memories include all-nighters, intramurals, stargazing, paintballing on campus, and the annual Spring Fling. Mikaela said a spontaneous trip to the beach when the weather warmed up was also a highlight. “We were swimming and sprinting on the sand and just so happy to finally get out. Looking around at everyone laughing, it was a moment of pure joy.”
Natalie enjoyed all her classes thanks to teachers she described as patient and passionate, and named Calculus and Phys. Ed as favorites. Mikaela enjoyed Calculus as well as Law, particularly when she got to be a defense lawyer during a mock trial. Outside of the classroom she participated in soccer, basketball, badminton, chamber choir, hand bell choir, drama, was a house leader and helped plan special events. Natalie took part in basketball, soccer, badminton, hand bell choir, chamber choir, robotics and leadership.
Although there were no games to travel to or events like the Alpine or Mission Trip, the extra time spent on campus demonstrated the LCBI spirit. “Overall there was just more time to do fun activities and bond with each other,” Mikaela said. “I think we are more connected with each other than we ever were.”
Natalie said a favorite memory was choreographing and performing a song for an air band competition. “We spent hours rehearsing. I love how enthusiastic and willing to work together and commit to anything the people at LCBI are.”
The girls were surprised and honored to be named co-valedictorians. Again, they are carrying on a family tradition since their dad, aunt and cousin have all been LCBI valedictorians. They will be writing and delivering a speech together, something they have experience with. “We work well together,” Natalie said. Mikaela added, “There will definitely be equal contribution. We both usually give constructive feedback to each other as well as encouragement.”
The girls share friends in common, but their interests and personalities differ and their parents have encouraged them to pursue their own paths. Mikaela remarked, “Although we grew up together doing many of the same extracurriculars, traveling together, and having the same friends, we have always been individuals.”
It makes planning for the future somewhat bittersweet. Natalie said, “Next year, we will be living in different provinces. I will miss her very much, but I am excited to live on my own.” Natalie will be heading to Edmonton to study Engineering at the University of Alberta. Mikaela is going to Kelowna to attend the University of British Columbia to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree.
As they prepare to say goodbye to the LCBI community they have some words to share with next year’s student body. “I want to tell them to make the most of their final years in high school,” Natalie remarked. “Life passes quickly. Remind your friends how much you love and appreciate them. High school is not an easy time. Anyone can feel overwhelmed or alone. Reach out to your classmates and spread the love.” Mikaela urges students to be in the moment. “Don’t let next year slip by. Enjoy every moment and make memories. Take pride in your work, but more importantly in how you treat others.”
