News Summary

Audrey Smith, a senior from Parkersburg South High School, excels in tennis, academics, and community service. Her philosophy of ‘living in the moment’ drives her diverse interests, including leadership roles in student organizations. With aspirations for a career in biomedical sciences, Audrey balances sports and volunteering, making her a remarkable role model for younger students.

Parkersburg Celebrates a Rising Star: Audrey Smith

In the bustling town of Parkersburg, a remarkable senior from Parkersburg South High School is making waves not just on the tennis court, but also in her academic pursuits and community service endeavors. Meet Audrey Smith, a dynamic 17-year-old whose high school journey is a whirlwind of activities, passions, and dreams.

Living in the Moment

Audrey’s philosophy during her high school career is refreshingly simple: “Live in the moment.” This mindset propels her forward as she juggles various interests. From the thrill of tennis to the harmony of choir, the leadership in student council, and the empathy fostered through Key Club, Audrey embodies what it means to be an engaged student. Her journey began at Parkersburg Catholic, where she spent her early educational years before making the switch to Parkersburg South for her freshman year. This transition was primarily fueled by her desire to join a larger tennis program and to seize dual enrollment opportunities.

A Family Tradition on the Tennis Court

Tennis is more than just a sport for Audrey; it’s a family tradition. Playing since elementary school, she finds that this sport significantly contributes to her personal growth. As both a singles and doubles player, she enjoys the strategy of singles matches for their self-control. Preparing for her matches becomes a ritual; she pumps herself up with music and hones in on her focus to manage her thoughts during play. Audrey regularly enters tennis tournaments, including regional events and the OVACs in Wheeling, showcasing her skills year after year.

Embracing Challenges Ahead

This upcoming season will bring new challenges for Audrey, as her school transitions into the Mountain State Athletic Conference. With up-and-coming competition from new schools, she continues her off-season training to ensure she remains at the top of her game, mentally and physically. In addition to her own competitions, she loves to share her talent by coaching younger kids aged 4 to 10. This experience not only enriches the kids but also sharpens her skills in patience and leadership.

Beyond the Court: Leadership and Community Service

Audrey’s leadership capabilities shine through in her roles as vice president of the National Honor Society and a member of the student council. Her heart for service reflects in her involvement with the Key Club, where she participates in initiatives like food drives and crafting heartfelt cards for nursing homes. Volunteering at WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center adds another layer to her already full schedule, allowing Audrey to engage with patients and staff—a rewarding experience that offers her both social interaction and growth.

Science Aspirations

Academically, Audrey is particularly passionate about science, especially biology and chemistry. These interests have shaped her aspirations to possibly enter the fields of biomedical sciences or medical research, with thoughts of attending medical school buzzing in her mind. Her volunteer experiences have deepened her understanding of what a career in these fields could look like, igniting an ambitious fire within her.

College Tours and Future Plans

As she prepares for her future, Audrey has taken tours of several colleges, including the likes of Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, Ohio State, and Notre Dame. She has developed a preference for Virginia schools due to their appealing attributes. As her senior year unfolds, she is filled with a mix of excitement and nostalgia about leaving high school behind, all while aiming to keep a balance of academics, student life, and her treasured volunteer work.

A Message to Younger Students

With a wealth of experience under her belt, Audrey encourages younger students to dive into clubs and volunteer opportunities. She believes that involvement is key to finding like-minded peers and making the most of their educational journey. With Audrey at the helm of her future and her heart set on helping others, Parkersburg is certainly lucky to have such a dedicated and spirited young person paving the way for a bright tomorrow.

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