Biography: Steven Ralles

It’s the night before my biography is due for this website and here I am typing away. I guess I am being the characteristic procrastinator. I have good reason though; I have been at football practice twice a day for the last 9 days. That many practices will get you a little tired. As you may have already guessed, I play high school football, as well as run track for Maple Grove Senior High. I grew up in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, but moved to Maple Grove when I was in first grade.

I was the typical elementary school boy. I loved gym class, playing football, playing jokes on people and playing in the snow. I guess that’s how I got into downhill skiing. I love being around snow, going off jumps and skiing down steep runs.  I'm a typical adrenaline junky.

I had tons of fun in Junior High! I went to Osseo Junior High School, which is the archrival of Maple Grove Junior High School. Maple Grove and Osseo are neighboring suburban cities that always have huge rivalries. I loved a bigger school and having more friends. I was always very interested in the sciences and started learning more about them during my three-year stay at Osseo Junior High. I always kind of wanted to be a doctor and my interest in science was helping out.

High school is when my life really started getting busy. My sophomore year I got used to the school, the classes and playing high school sports. I started playing the guitar and spending tons of time at my cabin wakeboarding and jet skiing (during the summer). I love playing football. My junior year, I started playing on the varsity team and it was the best experience ever! High school was an even bigger school, with even more kids and more things to do. I rarely had a boring night.

Going into my senior year, I am very excited to see what opportunities I will get to experience during the trip to China. I can’t believe this trip is actually going to happen in November. I am curious to see what the culture and scenery is like over there. I am kind of nervous about the trip because I really don’t know what to expect. I guess there is only one way to find out though! How many chances will I have to go to China with the Governor and other leaders from Minnesota? There are a few reasons why I think it’s important for students to follow along the activities during this mission. China is one of our largest trading partners and we will eventually be the ones trading with them in the future. I also believe it is important for students to learn about foreign cultures and history. I am looking forward to this trip and keeping everyone posted on what happens! I'll talk to you soon.