Coast Monthly visits with October cover model Ruby Morgan.

Islander Ruby Morgan, 19, has been a lifeguard for three years with the Galveston Island Beach Patrol.

Ruby Morgan, wearing a skirt by Aratta, sits on the steps of a historic house on Galveston’s East End. Built in 1898, this Victorian home at 913 16th St. features a wraparound porch and windows original from the Ursuline Convent. Michael Cordray of Save 1900 Realty is the listing agent. Want Ruby’s look? Shop Tina’s on The Strand, 2326 Strand. Photo by Stuart Villanueva

Morgan, whose family owns two shops in downtown Galveston — Tina’s on The Strand and The Admiralty — is happiest on a surfboard or on the beach, but enjoys relaxing on porches, too. This year, she began studying real estate at Houston Community College and hopes to be a full-time real estate agent one day, she said.

What made you decide to join Beach Patrol?

My boyfriend is also on Beach Patrol, and when I turned 16, he got me to join. I have been a competitive swimmer my whole life, so I felt confident that I could do the job well. I am so glad I did it. Beach Patrol is my family now.

Tell us a little about your family and Galveston roots.

My parents and I have lived in Galveston for almost five years. We moved here from Austin to help with our family businesses on The Strand (The Admiralty and Tina’s). My grandparents originally came to the island in 1993. Now my parents, my aunt, uncle and cousin live here.

What do you love most about living on the island?

I love that I can wake up and be on a beach in less than five minutes. I think it is so cool to be surrounded by water.

When and where are you happiest?

In the water for sure. The ocean is such a healing place for me, so whether I am on a surfboard or just swimming, if I’m in the water, I am happy!

Do you spend a lot of time on porches?

Yes, I love porches. Especially ones with lots of plants.

What do you like best about them?

I love just sitting on my porch with my dog, watching the cars drive by and people walking their dogs. It is very peaceful.

How would you describe your style?

I have a lot of different styles. Some days, I am very beachy, some days I am sporty, some days I just wear my pajamas. Overall, I would say my style is pretty laid-back.

Do you have a favorite designer?

I am very fascinated with the work of Coco Chanel. My favorite quote of hers is “In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.”

What’s your favorite song right now?

“I Feel Love” by Mounika.

Favorite movie?

“Whiplash” because it is all about passionate musicians. I come from a very musical family and have played instruments all my life.

Favorite book?

“Three Cups of Tea” because it has a lot of adventure in it.

What’s the quality you most like in a person?

I like when people are easy to talk to. I love having good conversations.

What’s your most treasured possession?

I’m not sure if this counts as a possession, but I would say my dog, Pearl. I love her so much!