As a high school senior, Rithvik Venisetty puts in full days. In addition to a full tennis schedule with his varsity team, he’s working hard in the school’s AP courses as well as taking classes at the University of Michigan–Flint. My City asked Rithvik a few questions so readers could learn more about this impressive young man, who has aspirations of becoming a physician and a leader in science and health.
What sports do you play?
I’ve played various sports throughout my life, but I spend most of my time on tennis. I’ve played for the Grand Blanc Varsity Tennis team for four consecutive years and am currently a team co-captain! As co-captain, it’s a lot of fun to work with my teammates Naveen Vattipally and Vaasu Patel to organize practices and get ready for tournaments — but it definitely comes with a lot of responsibility. Grand Blanc is known for having a great tennis team, so we try to maintain that reputation. In fact, this year, we placed 2nd at our SVL tournament, which was a great result!
What are your favorite classes?
This year, my favorite classes are AP Literature with Mrs. Kenney, AP Research with Mrs.
Bleicher, and my Organic Chemistry class (CHEM 330) at the University of Michigan–Flint.
Tell us about being a National Merit Finalist.
It was amazing to be one of only four students at GBHS to receive this honor. I was pretty excited when my counselors let me know I’d earned it. I think it really reflects the hard work I’ve put into school, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it will help me in the future.
What was it like participating in the RISE program at Boston University?
The RISE program (Research in Science and Engineering) at BU is super cool because it allows high school students to work directly with university professors on research in their field of interest. I was matched with Dr. Gummuluru, an HIV researcher at the Boston University School of Medicine, so I learned a lot about viruses and infection pathways. I was also one of only two students from Michigan accepted into the program, so it felt great to be part of such an exclusive opportunity.
You’ve already authored a book? Tell us about that.
Yeah! I wrote a book called Breaking Biology, which is an illustrated guide to different concepts in biology and biotech. It’s aimed at getting high school and middle school students more interested in the life sciences. It’s filled with diagrams that break down complex ideas, along with real-life applications of scientific discoveries. I’d definitely recommend it to students and adults alike! It’s available on Amazon and will soon be in local libraries. I’m even working on a sequel — so stay tuned!
What’s your favorite food?
It would probably have to be Thai food — or anything my mom cooks!
Have you chosen a career?
I definitely want to be a physician, and I hope to be involved in clinical research. I’m also really interested in healthcare policymaking and addressing health disparities. So, beyond being a doctor, I want to be a leader in my community in science and health.
Do you know a standout student in athletics, academics or the arts? Nominate them to be featured in an upcoming issue!
