Whiz Kid: Ferndale Junior a Top Student, Plays Sports, Helps Out at Home

Ryan Fura

• Age: 16
• School: junior at
• Accomplishments: Ryan set a goal of being in the top 10 of his graduating class and he is now at No. 10 as a junior. He has increased his goal to the top five. Ryan is in the National Honor Society, on the high school bowling team and plays baseball. He also helps take care of his siblings while his dad works and manages to fit in time for his friends and girlfriend.
• Key to awesomeness: "I'd have to say that it would be primarily hard work, challenging yourself and dedication. After I went to graduation last year, I saw that they gave out Presidential Awards to the top 10 in class. After that, it was my goal to achieve one," Fura said. Taking good notes in school, asking questions and applying school lessons to everyday life have helped, he said.

Do you know a Whiz Kid?

Each week, Ferndale Patch seeks suggestions from readers for individual kids, youth groups, teens and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or email jessicalschrader@gmail.com. Be sure to include all of the following information:

• Nominator's name and email address
• Whiz Kid's name, age and school
• Whiz Kid's accomplishment
• Whiz Kid's key to awesomeness (what made him/her successful?)