Calais School alum Rory Scialabba (Class of 2021) is going places—and he’s just getting started. This year, Rory graduated from Misericordia University with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management while competing on the university’s cross country and track teams. Next up? A Master’s in Business at Misericordia and a new role as a Graduate Assistant at the University Athletics department.

Rory spent 10 formative years at The Calais School, where he built strong academic habits, social-emotional skills, and confidence that would prepare him for the rigors of college life.

“Calais helped me understand what to expect—from living on my own to making new friends and learning how to ask for help when I needed it,” he says.

One of Rory’s biggest challenges in college was time management—balancing a full class schedule with five days of track practice, weekend meets, and time with friends. Luckily, The Calais School helped prepare him with the tools he needed to tap into his discipline, focus, and resilience.

Four years ago at his Calais high school graduation, Rory shared this advice with his classmates, “Never give up on pursuing your goals. Always keep going forward and never look back. There will be challenges along the way, but encountering and overcoming those challenges will make you become a more successful person.” Today, his message still rings true for Rory himself.

Now, a recent college graduate, he offers even more wisdom and perspective for rising college freshmen,

“Ask for help when you need it. Go to your professors’ office hours—they’re there to support you. And during those first few days of college, don’t just stay in your dorm. Get out, explore, meet new people. That’s how you’ll start building friendships and feeling part of the community.”

Rory’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is built one step at a time—with resilience, the right support, and a belief within yourself of what’s possible. We’re incredibly proud of everything Rory has accomplished—and we can’t wait to see where his road leads next. Keep moving forward, Rory, and congratulations!