
I am currently a sophomore at the University of Washington studying environmental science, with a concentration in natural resources and environmental management. My academic and employment pursuits have honed my abilities in various areas crucial to professional success, including adept time management, meticulous data collection, organizational proficiency, and seamless communication. I have worked as an online shopper for Whole Foods Market and as a lifeguard for a local park district which helped grow my customer service and team collaboration skills. I also participating in an environmental restoration internship during summer of 2023 which involved invasive plant management.
I placed completed orders in labeled, temperature-appropriate storage pending customer pick up, helped customers, and constantly walked and lifted up to 40 pounds at a time. I used iPhone technology to scan products and contact customers when necessary to make sure orders were completed accurately and efficiently. I helped with bagging and checkout as well when necessary, allowing me to interact with customers. I was also learned about food health safety and different ways to ensure organic and safe products.
Skills Learned:
I successfully obtained CPR and deep water certification training, equipping me with vital lifesaving skills that allowed me to perform rescues swiftly. I was responsible for overseeing a substantial section of park grounds, inclusive of deep water zones reaching depths of 12 feet and featuring slides. I became proficient in engaging with poolgoers of diverse age groups and collaborating with management and head guards as needed.
Skills Learned:
This internship involved invasive plant management in the Western Chicago suburbs. This included spraying, hand weeding, and tree cutting depending on the plant species and its level of damage in the area. Many of our invasive areas were overrun with Japanese Knotweed, which is also an issue in many areas of the United States. Our work days consisted of carrying 40 pound spray backpacks and being outside for 8-10 hours each day. I was also responsible for memorizing all the invasive plants in the region so that I could quickly get spraying done without killing any native species.
Skills Learned:
I worked with dogs of all kinds and had to manage different schedules day to day. This forced me to make a plan of action each day so that I could get all my visits done in a timely matter and within their designated time slot. I had to remember the preferences of each dog and understand their walking behaviors and how to handle certain situations. I also interacted with pet owners to ensure accurate care for their pet.
Skills Learned:
During this volunteer experience I spent time feeding, cleaning, and interacting with the adoptable cats at the human society. From ensuring their feeding schedules were adhered to, to meticulously maintaining their living spaces, I fostered an environment conducive to their well-being. While some of the cats were more sociable than others, after volunteering for a few months I found myself forging profound connections, particularly with the long-standing residents awaiting their forever homes.