Waynoka High School senior Rhiata Bouziden is a student who knows the value of hard work and balance. Between classes, softball, and her time at Northwest Technology Center in Alva, she’s setting herself up for a bright future, and doing it all with a smile.
Rhiata plays softball for Waynoka, where she enjoys the friendships and memories that come from being part of a team. “I enjoy being with my friends and seeing them help me reach my goals,” she said. One of her favorite memories came during her freshman year when Waynoka faced Pioneer. “We had over twenty runs that night; it was just one of those games where everything clicked. We were laughing, playing hard, and having the best time.”
In addition to sports, Rhiata stays busy with several school activities. She’s involved in HOSA, Academic Team, FCCLA, National Honor Society, Student Leadership Council, and the Future Farmers of America. Each of these experiences has helped her grow as a student and leader.
Her passion for health care started early. “I first heard about Tech during a sixth-grade and then an eighth-grade career fair,” she said. “I knew I wanted to do something in health, but I wasn’t sure what. After a while, I realized nursing was where I belonged.” Now a student in the Health Careers program at Northwest Technology Center, Rhiata is learning real-world skills that are preparing her for life after graduation.
“What I like about Tech is that they treat you like an adult,” she said. “It’s very laid back, and you can go at your own pace. They help you see what the real world expects from you and what kind of career you might want.”
Rhiata credits her dad and friend Jillian States as her biggest influences, encouraging her to always do her best. After high school, she plans to attend college and pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse.
For Rhiata, balancing school, sports, and technical training is not always easy, but with her drive and dedication, she’s already proving she’s ready for whatever comes next.
