Abby Rakus
Grand Rapids,MI
Summary
Postgraduate student that recently relocated back to Grand Rapids, Michigan after studying in Master of Occupational Therapy program in Gold Coast, Australia for past 2 years. Educational requirements have been completed for Master's degree and am awaiting diploma in June of 2026.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Barista
Hillcrest Christian College
07.2024 - 08.2025
- Maintained a calm demeanor during periods of high volume to keep cafe operating to standard and to set a positive example for the shift team
- Anticipated customer and cafe needs by constantly evaluating environment and customers for cues
- Provided quality beverages and food products consistently for all customers by adhering to all recipe and presentation standards. Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines for all products
Emergency Department Nurse Technician
Helen DeVos Children's Hospital
09.2022 - 04.2024
- Collected and reported physiological and psychological needs of patients and families in coordination with and as delineated by the nurse or provider. Ensured that required documentation was performed in an accurate and timely manner
- Provided direct patient care under the direction of the nurse or provider, consistent with clinical policies and procedures and the department’s standard of work
- Demonstrated a high standard of moral and ethical behavior. Advocated for privacy, confidentiality and security of patients, staff, and organization data
- Examples of daily tasks included: taking vital signs, performing EKGs, running blood and urine tests, splinting, assisting nurse with catheter for blood and urine samples, performing CPR in a cardiac arrest, assisting with orthotic cast, transporting patients to radiology and inpatient floors, bringing samples to lab, receiving blood from blood bank, assisting provider with sutures, performing visual acuity test, and assisting nurse and provider in traumatic incident
Camp Counselor
Springhill Camps
06.2020 - 12.2023
- Led kids through daily camp activities, meals, lessons, campfires, and team building exercises
- Participated in activities alongside kids including aquatic activities, crafts, high adventure activities, and target sports
- Was a role model and a spiritual leader
- Was part of a strong, supportive team of counselors and leadership staff
Behavior Assistant
Positive Behavior Supports Co.
02.2022 - 12.2022
- Provided direct care to clients in a one-on-one or group therapy setting to implement skill acquisition and behavior reduction treatments as directed by the supervisor
- Collected and recorded data on client behavior
- Provided a safe and supportive environment for clients and families
- Collaborated with BCBAs for additional skill acquisition goals
Barista
Starbucks
12.2020 - 06.2022
- Maintained a calm demeanor during periods of high volume or unusual events to keep store operating to standard and to set a positive example for the shift team
- Anticipated customer and store needs by constantly evaluating environment and customers for cues
- Provided quality beverages, whole bean, and food products consistently for all customers by adhering to all recipe and presentation standards. Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines for all products
Assistant Teacher
Milestones Early Learning
05.2018 - 12.2020
- Assisted the lead teacher in developing, planning, and implementing the classroom activities and curriculum
- Maintained supervision of all children in care at all times
Education
Master of Occupational Therapy -
Bond University
Gold Coast, Australia06.2026
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Hope College
Holland, MI12.2021
Timeline
Barista
Hillcrest Christian College
07.2024 - 08.2025
Emergency Department Nurse Technician
Helen DeVos Children's Hospital
09.2022 - 04.2024
Behavior Assistant
Positive Behavior Supports Co.
02.2022 - 12.2022
Barista
Starbucks
12.2020 - 06.2022
Camp Counselor
Springhill Camps
06.2020 - 12.2023
Assistant Teacher
Milestones Early Learning
05.2018 - 12.2020
Master of Occupational Therapy -
Bond University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Hope College
Internships
Occupational Therapy Intern Akeso Clinics in Cape Town, ZA July 2021 - July 2021
- Assisted in planning group activities and lesson plans
- Contributed to interdisciplinary team, which includes an occupational therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, dietitian, and nurses
- Observed interactions between patients and between patients and their therapy team
- Learned about Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy and implemented these techniques
- Comforted patients in times of distress through the use of deep breathing and positive affirmations
Psychometry Intern Pine Rest Mental Health Services in Grand Rapids, MI January 2020 - April 2020
- Administered and scored testing protocol for clients suspected of having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Worked closely with clinicians to provide relevant behavioral observations to supplement psychological consultations and evaluations
- Compiled professional development materials as part of personal project to assist future Psychological Consultation Center interns of responsibilities of internship