Riley Toth | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering with an African American Studies Certificate
Riley Toth has been fascinated by the mechanics of the body and the implications of technology all his life. “I always knew I was going to be an engineer,” Toth states, “I’m invested in the biomedical field because I care deeply about improving the body after it has experienced a trauma; I’m interested in how we can use innovation to give someone back their functionality.” Toth emphasizes his lifelong ambition to aid in the progression of humanity, noting, “Biomedical engineering is a direct, tangible way to help people.” Riley shares that his previous schooling in Baltimore, Maryland influenced his decision to enroll in the African American Studies certificate program; he grew an awareness of the lack of Black history and culture taught in public schools. “U.S. History is Black history and it’s too often lost or simply not taught,” he states, “I sought out Black history through my certificate.” Dr. Clark-Pujara’s Women and Slavery in the United States (AfroAm671) and Professor Shashko’s Hip-Hop and Contemporary American Society (AfroAm154) were two of the most influential to Toth. When taking a break from his studies, Riley enjoys playing intramural soccer, painting, and enjoying time with his brothers in Triangle Fraternity. While his post-grad plans are still unraveling, Riley underlined his nature to take chances, to stay curious, and to always put himself in new situations.