ERIKA MARTINEZ
New York
Summary
BA Candidate in Environmental Studies with a minor in Animal Studies at NYU. Research experience includes serving as a Research Assistant on a paper addressing consensual release for cetaceans, examining the intersection of conservation, ethics, and policy. Leadership as Head of Events for the NYU Animal Rights Collective has involved organizing advocacy campaigns, educational workshops, and partnerships with nonprofits to engage the student body in issues of animal rights and environmental justice. Seeking to pursue graduate study in environmental policy with a focus on ocean conservation.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research Assistant
WATR Lab, Nora Teter
02.2025 - Current
- Conducted literature reviews and policy analysis on marine mammal welfare, conservation, and release frameworks.
- Organized and maintained research documentation for compliance and accuracy.
- Assisted in drafting and editing research proposals and project materials.
- Participated in team meetings to discuss updates, challenges, and theoretical frameworks.
- Collaborated with faculty and peers to integrate perspectives from environmental policy, ethics, and animal studies.
Home Tutor
09.2022 - Current
- Provided individualized tutoring sessions to reinforce comprehension in challenging subjects.
- Supported exam preparation by offering guidance, strategies, and motivation to boost performance.
- Developed student confidence using positive reinforcement and personalized learning approaches.
- Reviewed and explained class materials to help students successfully complete assignments and strengthen understanding.
Event Coordinator
Animal Rights Collective [ARC]
11.2024 - Current
- Attended and contributed to weekly leadership and general meetings, collaborating on event planning and strategy.
- Organized and promoted campus events to raise awareness of species conservation and animal rights, engaging students and community members.
- Reorganized ARC’s internal structure by analyzing responsibilities and workflows, increasing efficiency and coordination across the team.
- Recruited new members and built outreach initiatives to expand organizational participation.
- Identified, assessed, and corresponded with potential panelists and guest speakers for advocacy and educational events.
Celebrity Hair Stylist & Assistant Stylist
George Grierson
05.2018 - 10.2021
- Managed client appointments [advance and drop-in], ensuring a welcoming and professional salon experience.
- Assisted on set during photoshoots, supporting head stylist with preparation, execution, and styling.
- Coordinated head stylist’s personal and professional schedule
- Maintained weekly inventory and supply orders.
- Cleaned and sanitized tools between clients; set up and broke down stylist stations to ensure efficiency and compliance with safety standards.
- Maintained smooth, on-time schedules by managing client flow in a calm, organized manner.
- Supported a collaborative team environment; assisted colleagues with daily tasks to enhance overall salon operations.
- Trained new staff on product knowledge and customer engagement, improving service consistency and client satisfaction.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Studies
New York University, NYU
New York, NY05-2026
Cosmetology License - Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell
Staten Island, NY01.2018
High School Diploma - undefined
Marshall High School
Marshall, MI01.2017
Skills
- Organized
- Quick learner
- Effective time management
- Effective communication
- Analytical problem solving
- Coordinating events
Accomplishments
- Organized NYU’s Plant-Based Food Festival with live music and 200+ attendees; partnered with vendors including Juice Press, Cocojune, Rebel Cheese.
- Dean’s List, Academic Years 2022–2023, 2023–2024.
- Irish Dance Achievements:
- First Place, Men & Ladies Beginner Reel Adult, United Irish Counties Feis (2025)
- First Place, Men & Ladies Beginner Light Jig Adult, United Irish Counties Feis (2025)
- Advanced to Novice level within first 18 months, progressing through multiple divisions in under two competitions.
Certification
Cosmetology License
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Hobbies and Interests
- Irish Dance [competitive and performance]
- Outdoor recreation [hiking, rock climbing, surfing, marine conservation activities]
- Reading [environmental policy, ethics, and literature]
- Politics and policy engagement
Timeline
Research Assistant
WATR Lab, Nora Teter
02.2025 - Current
Event Coordinator
Animal Rights Collective [ARC]
11.2024 - Current
Home Tutor
09.2022 - Current
Celebrity Hair Stylist & Assistant Stylist
George Grierson
05.2018 - 10.2021
High School Diploma - undefined
Marshall High School
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Studies
New York University, NYU
Cosmetology License - Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell