Laurel Ridge alum puts all his energy into everything he does

2014 Laurel Ridge grad Javier Wong went all in on his college education and in everything else he has done since then.

The Central High School graduate moved to Woodstock from Mexico in 2001, and started attending Laurel Ridge in 2010.

“I had a great experience at Laurel Ridge,” he said. “I learned a lot of things and made many friends. Those were some of the best years of my life because I did so many activities and met a lot of people. I met some of my best friends at the college.”

Wong was captain of the soccer team for all four years of his time at Laurel Ridge. He started the International Fusion Culture Club with his advisor Lisa Currie, helped start a swing dancing club and played on the rugby team. Additionally, he was vice president of the Student Government Association, which he joined “just to be part of it and help out,” and was invited to participate in Project LEAD for student leaders at Laurel Ridge.

“We did a lot of community service,” said Wong. “I participated in every event.”

After receiving his science degree from Laurel Ridge in 2014, Wong returned to Mexico where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics engineering. He moved back to Woodstock in 2019 on a student visa, and completed a master’s degree in information technology through the University of North America in Fairfax. He has received approval for practical training for a company where he utilizes his engineering background in the quality control department and his master’s degree to lead implementation of cybersecurity protocols.

Wong is also helping his mother, Maria Ferreira, with graphic design, social media and electrical work at her Woodstock restaurant, Mary’s Botanitas, which serves authentic Mexican cuisine.

“I do everything to help my mom and make sure the business is running well,” he said.

Wong, his mother and his sister work together and have expanded the business to include an events space.

“While waiting for customers to rent it, I decided to start a little board game club with my nephews,” Wong said. “I noticed games help my nephews learn how to strategize and problem solve.”