Riva Bergman has really found her groove over the past four years, exploring academic courses in every discipline, playing sports, participating in clubs and embracing an active social life. The Huntington High School senior has excelled in every way and thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it, but soon it will be time for her to move on to Quinnipiac College where she intends to study for a career as a social worker.
“I loved Quinnipiac from the second I stepped on campus,” Ms. Bergman said. “I love the vibe there. I also loved the fact that they have a five year master’s in social work (MSW) degree program. I am majoring in psychology and then pursuing my master’s in social work, which can all be completed in five years instead of six.”
Huntington High School senior Riva Bergman is headed to Quinnipiac University
The mature young woman has been a standout in Huntington’s Class of 2020. She has a larger than life personality and a great sense of humor and enough self-confidence to even laugh at herself from time to time.
“Huntington has prepared me tremendously for college,” Ms. Bergman said. “I have taken many Advanced Placement courses, which are very similar to those I will have to take at Quinnipiac. I am more than ready because Huntington prepared me so well. I am up for any challenge put my way.”
Ms. Bergman has always established and maintained high standards for herself. She hasn’t cut many corners and has always worked hard rather than look for the easy way out.
“The most valuable and interesting courses I have taken at Huntington would definitely be the AP Capstone program,” Ms. Bergman said. “I took AP Seminar my junior year and AP Research my senior year. Those classes helped me dive deeper into English, writing papers, presenting and finding my own interests. I also think that Virtual Enterprise was so important. I took it my junior year and was a member of our company’s (Poppy) presenting team at the national championships. It was a great experience to appear before a panel of judges and meet new people from around the world. Lastly, AP Psychology, which I am taking as a senior. It will really prepare me for my introductory college psychology course as a freshman.”
There isn’t any question that Ms. Bergman likes to have a good time. She loves spending time with her friends and is always seeking fun social outlets outside of class.
“My favorite activity has been going to football, soccer, basketball and lacrosse games,” Ms. Bergman said. “I love our Huntington community’s vibe. I also enjoyed playing soccer and being on the field. I love seeing all of my friends and teachers in the hallways as well.”
The senior has long been a popular classmate and teammate. She is articulate and can more than hold her own in any conversation. The teenager always seems to have something interesting to say.
Her advice to incoming ninth graders? “Just be yourself and get yourself involved in many clubs and sports to meet people,” Ms. Bergman said. “You will love Huntington!”
Loyalty is one of the most important qualities in Ms. Bergman’s book and she gives it freely to her friends, while naturally expecting it back. When one of her friends needs help, the teenager is willing to drop everything and be there for them. She’s someone that can always be counted on when the chips are down.
“I have mainly relied on Todd Jamison (high school coach and security guard) for support,” Ms. Bergman said. “I always sit with him and talk to him about everything. I also talk to Mrs. [Dianna] Cazzalino who is the AP Capstone teacher. She has made me such a better student and person and I thank her for everything she does. Lastly, Mr. [Joseph] Cohen, who was my Living Environment Honors teacher during my freshman year. I am so lucky to be his intern this year. We have a close relationship and I always look forward to being in his class.”
It’s hard to imagine Huntington High School next year without Ms. Bergman walking its halls. She’s always made her presence felt around the building and her smile and warm personality have enhanced the lives of everyone she has crossed paths with over the past four years.
“Huntington is special for being there for everyone,” Ms. Bergman said. “I never felt judged or treated differently. I love Huntington and I am sad to go, but happy to see our community so strong. I have had an amazing and extremely memorable experience at Huntington, I will miss the sporting events, the Huntington family, the bonds with my teachers and faculty. I will always remember my Huntington family!”
