Andrew Johnston
Allendale
Summary
Driven and empathetic Anthropology major with strong academic foundations in cultural studies and cross-cultural communication. Passionate about education and community engagement, with hands-on experience in volunteer teaching, enhancing leadership, communication, and mentorship abilities.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Literacy Coach
Literacy Center Of West Michigan
Grand Rapids, MI
01.2026 - Current
- Developed tailored literacy programs to enhance student engagement and reading proficiency.
- Collaborated with educators to assess literacy needs and implement effective instructional strategies.
- Facilitated professional development workshops, equipping teachers with best practices in literacy instruction.
- Analyzed student progress data to identify trends and adjust interventions for improved outcomes.
Optician Technician
LensCrafters
Grand Rapids, MI
08.2025 - Current
- Collaborated with optometrists to interpret prescriptions for accurate lens fabrication.
- Skilled in comprehensive patient pre-testing, including history taking, autorefraction, and tonometry.
- Strong ability to build rapport with patients, delivering empathetic care and clear communication.
Freelance Artist
Self-employeed
Newport News, VA
06.2018 - Current
- Implemented time management strategies for balancing multiple projects while meeting individual deadlines successfully.
- Continuously expanded artistic skills through workshops, online courses, and self-study, resulting in versatile creative offerings for clients.
- Developed an extensive portfolio showcasing a variety of artistic styles and mediums, attracting new clientele.
- Generated increased referrals through consistently exceeding client expectations with high-quality artwork.
Ethnographic Researcher
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
09.2025 - 12.2025
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to design and implement research methodologies.
- Presented findings to community partners, enhancing visibility of university research initiatives.
- Conducted community-based research and interviews, implementing rapid ethnographic assessments
Alumni Ambassador Internship
CIS Abroad
Allendale, MI
11.2024 - 05.2025
- Advised and mentored students on application process, cultural adaptation, and academic planning.
- Promoted study abroad programs to prospective students through presentations, panels, and campus events.
- Shared personal experiences and insights to encourage students to explore international education.
- Developed and implemented outreach strategies to enhance program visibility and student engagement.
Teaching Volunteer
Mahidol University International College
Salaya, Thailand
01.2024 - 04.2024
- Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student understanding of complex subjects.
- Established and maintained positive relationships with students to foster environment of support and open communication.
- Collaborated with faculty to design curriculum improvements aligning with educational standards.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Anthropology, Applied Linguistics
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI05-2026
Bachelor of Science - International Communication and Language
Mahidol University International College
Salaya, Thailand04-2024
Skills
- Teamwork and Cooperation
- Leadership experience
- Innovative thinking
- Teaching and Mentoring
- Instructional coaching
Timeline
Literacy Coach
Literacy Center Of West Michigan
01.2026 - Current
Ethnographic Researcher
Grand Valley State University
09.2025 - 12.2025
Optician Technician
LensCrafters
08.2025 - Current
Alumni Ambassador Internship
CIS Abroad
11.2024 - 05.2025
Teaching Volunteer
Mahidol University International College
01.2024 - 04.2024
Freelance Artist
Self-employeed
06.2018 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Anthropology, Applied Linguistics
Grand Valley State University
Bachelor of Science - International Communication and Language
Mahidol University International College