2017’s 20 Under 20: Elliot Bones, Rock Bridge High School

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Parents’ names:

Kim Wade and David Bones.

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to study PPE (philosophy, political science, and economics) at the University of Pennsylvania.

Dream job:

My dream job is to become a civil rights lawyer.

Favorite class in high school:

I liked all of my social studies classes, but I especially enjoyed U.S. and comparative government and politics .

Favorite club or extracurricular in high school:

My favorite extracurricular activity was the Heifer International Club at Rock Bridge. I founded this club as a sophomore, and I really enjoyed helping it grow and contribute to the community.

Proudest accomplishment in high school:

Being appointed co-president of Rock Bridge Reaches Out, a service organization at Rock Bridge, was my proudest moment. I’d spent my entire high school career as a member of Rock Bridge Reaches Out, so it was very humbling and exciting for me to have a chance to lead a club that I’d dedicated so much of my time to.

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“I have lost my smile, but don’t worry. The dandelion has it.” This quote, from Thich Nhat Hanh says that there’s always happiness present in the world, even if you’re feeling sad. It encourages a positive, optimistic view of oneself and the world.

Biggest lesson learned in high school:

The biggest lesson I’ve learned from high school is that you should do things that you enjoy and that make a positive difference for others. If what you’re doing makes you happy and helps the community, then it doesn’t matter what other people think about it.

Future goals:

I would like to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania, and then I would like to take a one or two year break from school to travel or volunteer somewhere before attending law school.

Favorite teacher:

There are too many, but here are a few: James Meyer, Gregory Irwin, Gwen Struchtemeyer.

Person I admire and why:

I really admire Tiana from “The Princess and the Frog.” Tiana used hard work and determination to further her position in life — and even when she was turned into a frog (something we can all relate to) Tiana persevered and was eventually able to achieve her dream.

What you do for fun:

For fun I enjoy running, hiking, reading, juggling, baking, forcing my family to eat burnt food (not related to my baking), and spending time with friends.