The journey from boy to man is an amazing transformation to witness. At Riverside, our history is full of stories from alumni and parents who credit Riverside with helping them navigate that journey successfully. During these critical, formative years, when a boy’s character, confidence and work ethic are forever shaped, Riverside provides the much-needed structure, organization and discipline to help them flourish. Focused and motivated, they grow from young, impressionable boys into mature, confident leaders.
"By the middle of my sophomore year, it was apparent to my parents that a change was needed. I was at the 3.0 level, and if my habits continued, it was obvious that I would be limiting my future. …My parents were intent on my switching to a smaller local private school. However, upon touring Riverside Military Academy, I knew immediately that this was the change I needed.
Announcing the transfer to Riverside was a difficult one, since I did not receive a supportive response from my friends. The structure, the uniforms, the all-boy environment was more than my friends could handle. I consider that decision, that announcement, to be the first bold move of my life. With that decision I truly broke away and determined that I had to be in control of the path of my life.
I hit the ground running at Riverside. The structure, the expectations, the challenge and the clear rules served as a grounding force for me. Within three weeks of entering the school I was switched up to Honors classes and found myself performing better than ever.
Football was still a very big part of my life. However, I knew that without exception if I did not complete my assignments I would not be permitted on the practice field. I have watched my state championship team play without the key offensive player because he did not do his assignments. Rules were clear, expectations were clear, and for the first time I was receiving feedback that sounded so different from the past — 'you have potential and you are fully living up to it.'"
"Riverside truly changed Ben's life for the better. The leadership experiences he gained at Riverside are just not possible at any other school in America. He learned discipline, character and organizational skills. All of his teachers were so supportive of him, and we will be forever grateful to Riverside for allowing Ben a chance at success."
"My time and experiences at RMA were the primary motivators for seeking out a career in public service and my successes in law enforcement and life. Perhaps each of us looks at success through different eyes and variant values. My definition, however, includes religion, family and careers. I believe each of these dimensions in my life have been enriched by my RMA experiences."