With an already-busy schedule of high school classes and extracurricular activities, James Reavis didn't think he had time for a part-time job. He solved the problem by starting his own computer-consulting business, CtrlAltDel.
"It allows me to schedule clients around my schedule," he said. "It's really making money off of knowledge, rather than manual labor, which is something I appreciate."
Although operating his own business can be time-consuming, it has not made him neglect his studies. Instead, it has shown him the importance of going to school.
"It's made me realize the value of an education," he said. "Without an education, you get stuck doing something you don't enjoy doing."
Reavis, 17, moved to Carson City with his parents, Richard and Marilyn, when he was 3.
In June, he will graduate from Carson High School.
"I'm writing the final chapter in my book of childhood and looking forward to starting my new book: adulthood," he said. "Of course it's weird, but I'm looking forward to pursuing new opportunities in college."
In high school, Reavis has been active in student government, recently completing a term as student body school board representative.
He also participated on the varsity ski and tennis teams. And he has maintained a 3.97 grade-point average.
However, he said the lessons he's learned most from high school go deeper than anything he read in a textbook.
"If you were to look at who I am now, compared to freshman year, you would certainly see a dramatic change," he said. "Going from freshman year to senior year, I wouldn't say it's discovering who you are, it's deciding who you want to become.
"High school is the time when you make decisions regarding your character."
After graduation, Reavis plans to attend college and major in a computer field before pursing a master's degree in business administration.
But, he still has to compete in the mock pageant Mr. Carson High on Feb. 29 and the state championship ski tournament Saturday and Sunday.
"We have a great chance to take state this year," he said. "If there was any year we could do it, it would be this year."
As he approaches the end of his secondary-school career, he said he has received a lot of guidance along the way, but most important has been the influence of his parents.
"My parents have definitely supported me," he said. "They have really staked a lot in me. I'm definitely a full-time job for them."
Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.
