Elizabeth Forassiepi
Woodridge,IL
Summary
Recent Zoology graduate with hands-on experience in animal husbandry, behavioral observation, environmental education, and public engagement through work in zoological, educational, and outdoor recreation settings. Experienced working with mammals, reptiles, birds, and invertebrates in both animal care and interpretive roles. Passionate about animal welfare, conservation, and creating meaningful guest experiences through education and responsible animal care. Recognized for strong teamwork, communication, adaptability, and ability to thrive in fast-paced public-facing environments.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
STEM Coordinator
High Touch High Tech Chicago
12.2025 - Current
- Develops and delivers interactive STEM programming for K–8 students across topics including ecology, geology, wildlife science, and chemistry
- Facilitates hands-on, inquiry-based lessons in school settings, adapting instruction for diverse age groups and learning styles
- Engages students in experiential science learning designed to strengthen understanding of natural systems and scientific thinking
Seasonal Zookeeper
Phillips Park Zoo
10.2024 - 11.2025
- Provided daily animal husbandry for a diverse collection of mammals, reptiles, birds, and invertebrates, including feeding, enrichment, enclosure cleaning, and habitat maintenance
- Conducted routine behavioral observations and reported changes in health or behavior to senior animal care staff
- Assisted with veterinary care support including medication administration and animal training exercises
- Maintained cleanliness and safety of animal enclosures, service areas, and public viewing spaces
- Participated in public education and outreach programs at schools, assisted living facilities, and community events, communicating conservation messaging and animal care practices to diverse audiences
Horse Trail/Ropes Course Guide
Whitewater Express
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Ensured safety and welfare of horses and guests during guided trail rides and high ropes course activities
- Performed daily feeding, grooming, and basic care of horses while monitoring behavioral responses and adjusting handling techniques as needed
- Collaborated with team members to assess and resolve animal behavior concerns and maintain safe operational conditions
- Supported guest engagement by providing instruction, supervision, and interpretive guidance in outdoor recreation settings
Day Camp Counselor
Lincoln Marsh Curiosity Camp
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Designed and led nature-based educational activities for children ages 3–9, focusing on local ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation concepts
- Facilitated hands-on learning experiences involving native amphibians, fish, insects, and plant life
- Collaborated with co-counselors to implement structured lesson plans, games, and crafts that encouraged curiosity about the natural world and environmental stewardship
Assistant Roving Naturalist Intern
Brookfield Zoo
05.2018 - 08.2018
- Delivered informal educational programming for zoo guests through live animal interpretation and short conservation presentations featuring reptiles and invertebrates
- Safely handled ambassador animals for public engagement while ensuring animal welfare standards were maintained
- Developed and presented 8–10 minute educational talks focused on conservation messaging and species awareness, supporting the zoo’s mission of wildlife education and public engagement
Cashier
Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Handled customer orders via phone and in-person while operating point-of-sale systems and managing transactions accurately
- Assisted with order coordination, inventory awareness, and preparation of takeout orders to ensure efficiency and quality
- Maintained a guest-focused environment by communicating clearly with customers and coworkers and resolving issues in real time during busy service periods
Cashier/Server
Buffalo Wild Wings
2019 - 01.2023
- Provided high-volume guest service in a fast-paced environment, managing orders, payments, and food delivery while maintaining accuracy and efficiency during peak rush periods
- Communicated directly with guests to resolve issues, answer questions, and ensure a positive experience
- Collaborated with team members to coordinate timely service and maintain smooth front-of-house operations
Education
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL05-2024
Skills
- Animal husbandry and daily care
- Team-based animal care operations
- Enclosure and habitat maintenance
- Animal handling (mammals, reptiles, birds, invertebrates)
- Enrichment design and implementation
- Environmental and conservation education
- Public education and conservation interpretation
- Guest engagement and communication
- Behavioral observation and health monitoring
- Fast-paced, public-facing work environments
- Field and laboratory-based zoological knowledge
- Safety protocols and situational awareness in public spaces
- Scientific observation and documentation
- Basic veterinary support (medication assistance, training support)
Timeline
STEM Coordinator
High Touch High Tech Chicago
12.2025 - Current
Seasonal Zookeeper
Phillips Park Zoo
10.2024 - 11.2025
Horse Trail/Ropes Course Guide
Whitewater Express
05.2024 - 08.2024
Cashier
Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza
09.2023 - 05.2024
Day Camp Counselor
Lincoln Marsh Curiosity Camp
05.2023 - 08.2023
Assistant Roving Naturalist Intern
Brookfield Zoo
05.2018 - 08.2018
Cashier/Server
Buffalo Wild Wings
2019 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Southern Illinois University