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Teen of the Week: Parkersburg High School senior seeks dream job in marine biology

By James Dobbs 3 min read

VIENNA -- Eighteen-year-old Riley Smith was born in Dayton, Ohio, and raised in Vienna. Today, he attends school at Parkersburg High School, as a senior.

"I've maintained a 4.0 or higher throughout high school," said Smith.

In his junior year, Smith took three Advanced Placement classes, 11 Honors courses and a dual-credit Psychology and Sociology course from West Virginia University at Parkersburg. In his senior year, Smith is taking AP Government, and AP Literature which will earn him college credit at WVU-P.

"My favorite subjects in school are my art and science classes," he said.

Last year, his favorite course was herpetology, a branch of zoology that studies reptiles and amphibians. This year, Smith is enjoying his community service class. In this class he assists the student service center by giving new students tours and helping receive students for scheduling or meetings.

"I've always been interested in soccer and marine life," Smith explained.

After high school, Smith plans to attend Ohio University, where he will study marine biology.

"I'm planning on majoring in marine freshwater environmental biology, with plans to attend graduate school for a masters degree or PHD in marine biology," stated Smith.

He said his dream job is doing something in marine biology that involves preserving the ocean.

"I hope to one day be able to help preserve the ocean, and marine wildlife all over the world," said Smith. "I want to be able to work with and study all these different types of animals, and how they interact with one another, and us. My dream is to have a family and house on the coast, where I can wake up knowing I'm going to my dream job and work as a marine biologist."

Smith has worked as a lifeguard and swim coach for three years at the Greenmont Racquet and Swim Club and is certified in AED, CPR and first aid. He said he really enjoys working with all of the swimmers and the Greenmont pool swim team.

"One of my favorite things is when it finally 'clicks' for the kids and they can swim a little ways without having one of us hold them up," explained Smith. "They get so proud of themselves, which makes it more enjoyable for us as teachers."

During his spare time, Smith volunteers. He has volunteered with the Vienna Public Library, by shelving books and cleaning. During the holiday season, he volunteers with the Salvation Army and was a part of the Red Kettle campaign to help raise money for charity.

When he isn't volunteering Smith enjoys listening to rap music and watching Disney and action movies. He also enjoys spending time with his brother Reece, his friends, his two cats Cosmo and Duffy and playing soccer.

While at PHS Smith has been a part of the swim and soccer teams. Smith is starting left back for the varsity soccer team this year.

"I'm a three-year letterman and a team captain this year," said Smith. "I was voted best defensive player my freshman year, and outstanding player my junior year."

Smith was also selected for the all region team in his junior year.

"I was super honored when I found out I was a captain for the soccer team this season," he said. "I try to be a good role model for my teammates, doing my best to exemplify good sportsmanship, character, hard work, trustworthiness, respect and discipline."

James Dobbs can be reached at jdobbs@newsandsentinel.com.

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