Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Benjamin Southerland

Chicago,Illinois

Summary

I’m a dedicated educator and aspiring physical therapist with a background in the performing arts. Originally from Dalton, GA, I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Coastal Carolina University and moved to Chicago to pursue a career in acting. Over time, my passion shifted from the stage to the human body and movement, leading me to pursue a career in physical therapy.

My most recent job was serving as an algebra tutor with Saga Education, where I provided academic support to underserved communities in Chicago. My diverse experiences in the arts, education, and healthcare have shaped my ability to connect with people, communicate effectively, and foster growth—whether in the classroom, on stage, or in a clinical setting.

Now, I am a Certified Personal Trainer through NASM, and I am incredibly excited to break into the field of health and fitness. The experience I receive will be invaluable on my continued academic journey towards my ultimate goal of becoming a physical therapist.

I’m passionate about helping others improve their well-being, and I’m excited to continue my journey in physical therapy, where I can make a meaningful impact through rehabilitation and client care.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

AmeriCorps Leadership Fellow

Saga Education
08.2022 - 06.2025
  • Mentored freshman algebra students in underserved Chicago Public high schools
  • Supported a caseload of 16 - 45 students
  • Built deep and meaningful relationships with the students to increase joy factor and build trust
  • Increased student math scores on the STAR 360 Math Assessment by an average of 27 %
  • Led training sessions for my team
  • Created a classroom timer in order to keep students and fellow employees on task
  • Crafted online quizzes and games to help students review concepts in a fun and engaging way
  • Built slideshows for my team with lessons for the week in order to streamline the tutoring process, as well as make it visually appealing

Server

Roots Handmade Pizza
08.2021 - 08.2022
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to enhance dining experience and foster repeat business.
  • Managed food and beverage orders efficiently, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery to tables.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline communication and expedite meal preparation processes.
  • Trained new servers on menu offerings, service standards, and operational procedures to improve team performance.
  • Sold subscriptions to guests in order to increase customer retention rates.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest experience.

Trainer

Shake Shack
07.2020 - 08.2021
  • Developed and delivered training programs on operational procedures and safety protocols.
  • Facilitated onboarding sessions for new employees, enhancing orientation experience.
  • Assessed training effectiveness through feedback surveys and participant evaluations.
  • Collaborated with management to identify skill gaps and tailor training materials accordingly.
  • Prepared all ingredients before opening, ensuring smooth service for the day.
  • Cooked alongside employees to fulfill orders in a timely fashion.

BeachBody Coach

Beachbody
09.2017 - 05.2018
  • Followed Beachbody workout and nutrition programs consistently and shared personal progress to model healthy habits.
  • Supported customers by helping them start and stay on track with workout programs, meal plans, and supplements.
  • Checked in regularly with clients to provide motivation, accountability, and encouragement.
  • Facilitated accountability groups (“Challenge Groups”) to build community and foster consistency.
  • Promoted Beachbody products, programs, and subscriptions, assisting clients in selecting the best fit for their goals.
  • Managed customer orders and tracked client progress using the Beachbody platform.
  • Recruited and mentored new coaches, providing guidance on business building and team development.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Musical Theatre

Coastal Carolina University
Conway
04-2018

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Physical Theatre

Accademia Dell'Arte
Arezzo, Italy
12-2016

Skills

  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Google Suites, and Canva
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Critical thinking and reasoning skills
  • Ability to manage heavy workloads and meet tight deadlines
  • Affinity towards working in a team environment, while also able to handle solo tasks

Certification

NASM Certified Personal Trainer

Timeline

AmeriCorps Leadership Fellow

Saga Education
08.2022 - 06.2025

Server

Roots Handmade Pizza
08.2021 - 08.2022

Trainer

Shake Shack
07.2020 - 08.2021

BeachBody Coach

Beachbody
09.2017 - 05.2018

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Musical Theatre

Coastal Carolina University

Bachelor of Fine Arts - Physical Theatre

Accademia Dell'Arte