Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Leadership Experience
Timeline
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Destinee Patterson

Richton Park,IL

Summary

Dedicated and adaptable customer service professional with over four years of experience providing responsive, high-quality support in fast-paced environments. Skilled at resolving issues with empathy, multitasking under pressure, and delivering positive customer experiences both in person and over the phone. Recognized for clear communication, attention to detail, and a proactive mindset that keeps operations running smoothly. Eager to contribute strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities to a dynamic customer service team.

Overview

5
5
years of professional experience

Work History

Panther Pathway Undergraduate Guide

EIU Office of Student Success
08.2024 - Current
  • Guided over 50 first-year students through orientation, campus life, and available support resources.
  • Acted as a peer mentor, addressing questions and ensuring a smooth transition to college life.
  • Supported program operations and helped coordinate events and move-in activities.

Office Assistant

EIU Office of Academic Inclusion & Engagement
10.2023 - 08.2024
  • Served as the first point of contact for visitors, students, and staff, answering questions and resolving concerns with professionalism.
  • Maintained organized filing systems, handled administrative tasks, and supported event coordination.
  • Improved internal communication processes and helped streamline daily operations.

Summer Optician

Walmart Vision Center
06.2023 - 09.2023
  • Assisted ~14 clients per day with frame selection, insurance claims, and optical product purchases.
  • Supported optometrists in pre-testing procedures and helped patients understand prescriptions and eye care options.
  • Delivered consistent, friendly service to a wide age range of customers, earning repeat business and referrals.

Direct Support Personnel

Developmental Foundation Inc.
07.2022 - 05.2023
  • Built strong rapport with residents while providing essential care and support in a group home environment.
  • Managed daily living tasks, responded to emergencies, and resolved interpersonal conflicts.
  • Demonstrated patience, empathy, and clear communication in emotionally sensitive situations.

Student Manager

EIU Dining Services
08.2020 - 06.2022
  • Supervised student employees and managed front-line service operations during peak hours.
  • Resolved customer issues quickly and diplomatically, ensuring a high level of satisfaction.
  • Fostered a positive team environment and facilitated communication between staff and supervisors.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - English Literary Studies

Eastern Illinois University
06.2026

Skills

  • Customer Support (Phone, Email, In-Person)
  • Conflict Resolution & De-escalation
  • Active Listening & Empathy
  • Team Collaboration & Peer Coaching
  • Data Entry & Microsoft Office / Google Suite
  • Sales Support & Product Knowledge
  • Organizational & Time Management
  • CRM & Record-Keeping Tools

Leadership Experience

  • President, The Kat Walk Modeling Agency - Managed 13 board members and 50+ models, led fundraising and creative direction.
  • President, Minority Teacher Education Association
  • Executive Board Member, NAACP (Political Action Chair)
  • Conference Presenter, EIU English & Africana Studies (2024)
  • African American Studies Scholarship Recipient
  • 1st Runner-Up, Miss Black EIU Scholarship Pageant

Timeline

Panther Pathway Undergraduate Guide

EIU Office of Student Success
08.2024 - Current

Office Assistant

EIU Office of Academic Inclusion & Engagement
10.2023 - 08.2024

Summer Optician

Walmart Vision Center
06.2023 - 09.2023

Direct Support Personnel

Developmental Foundation Inc.
07.2022 - 05.2023

Student Manager

EIU Dining Services
08.2020 - 06.2022

Bachelor of Arts - English Literary Studies

Eastern Illinois University