This fall, Sierra Krichiver ’21 begins a new chapter at Princeton University, bringing her Orchard roots and lifelong passions with her. She plans to major in astrophysics with a minor in philosophy. Known for her love of science, mathematics, and the arts, Sierra is a National Merit Scholar, an Indiana Academic Rising Star, and the recipient of North Central High School’s top math honor, the Allan R. Weinheimer Award for Excellence in Mathematics. She also founded North Central’s Astronomy Club and was honored for her leadership as a Student to Student Ambassador through the Jewish Community Relations Council.

At The Orchard School, Sierra’s curiosity and creativity were already shining. She earned the M.E. Glore Galileo Award for Science and a Creative Writing Award, and advanced to the top 5% of entries in the international Breakthrough Junior Challenge.

Longtime mentor and Orchard teacher Scott Weaver helped nurture Sierra’s confidence and skills in the Makerspace and beyond, a connection she still values today.

“Mr. Weaver is a one-of-a-kind teacher and person,” Sierra said. “He has made an incredible impact on my journey as a lifelong learner. He taught me the importance of creativity and how to balance determination with acceptance of mistakes. Anyone lucky enough to cross paths with Mr. Weaver will emerge a better person.”

When she’s not solving equations or exploring space, Sierra tap dances, a lifelong joy that’s stayed with her since her Orchard days. She returned to campus last fall to co-host a table at the Open House, sharing her story of success with prospective families and working with Mr. Weaver once again.

Whether she’s building community or guiding young learners while working at Mathnasium, Sierra is a proud Orchard alum whose future looks as bright as the stars she’s always been drawn to.

Keep an eye out for this story and more in the upcoming issue of Owl Magazine, arriving later this summer.