Riley Purcell
Biological Sciences Undergrad Student
Blacksburg
Summary
Experienced with peer leadership and teaching roles. Successful organization and execution of informational events directed towards incoming and current college students. Skilled in team collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Leader
Virginia Tech Residential Well Being
08.2025 - Current
- Organized campus events to foster a sense of community and promote student involvement.
- Collaborated with faculty to develop programs that enriched the overall educational experience for students.
- Lead orientation meetings to adjust incoming students to college life and expectations
- Responded to emergency situations and followed up as necessary
- Offered solutions to concerns when approached by residents
- promoted academic and campus resources as appropriate
LLP Mentor
VIA Living Learning Community
08.2025 - Current
- Assisted mentees in setting achievable goals and creating realistic action plans for personal and professional growth.
- Promoted positive relationships between mentees and other peers and adults to encourage social resilience and connection.
- Collaborated with teachers, counselors and administrators to foster access to resources and support.
- Assisted with transition into college by leading tours, walking class routes, and helping to develop study practices
Sailing Instructor
Washington Sailing School
06.2021 - 08.2024
- Continuously updated personal knowledge of sailing practices, attending additional training and practices as needed to ensure top-quality instruction.
- Taught students from ages 8-70 through demonstration, hands on learning, and traditional classroom instruction
- Provided personalized feedback to students, enabling them to improve their sailing skills and achieve personal goals.
- Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop improved teaching methods for increased student retention and success rates.
- Mentored junior instructors to help them refine their teaching styles and better support the needs of diverse student populations.
- Maintained full safety and boating credentials.
- Led skill assessments for new students, accurately placing them into appropriate training levels based on demonstrated abilities and knowledge gaps.
- Completed maintenance on boats and equipment.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University
Blacksburg, VA 05.2001 -
McLean High School
McLean, VA06-2024
Skills
Peer mentoring
Academic support
Fast learner
Positive attitude
Event coordination
Self-directed learning
Community volunteering
Teamwork and collaboration
Timeline
Student Leader
Virginia Tech Residential Well Being
08.2025 - Current
LLP Mentor
VIA Living Learning Community
08.2025 - Current
Sailing Instructor
Washington Sailing School
06.2021 - 08.2024
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University
05.2001 -
McLean High School