Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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Karen Vargas

Valley Stream,NY

Summary

Motivated and compassionate professional with experience in research assistance, childcare, tutoring, customer service, and healthcare support. Most recently, I supported participant recruitment and research coordination at the Autism Origins Lab at Queens College, demonstrating strong organizational and collaborative abilities. Previously worked as a babysitter and tutor, providing both academic support and childcare, helping to manage daily routines while promoting educational growth. I've demonstrated ability to manage time effectively, communicate with families, and engage children in both play and learning activities. Skilled in customer service, administrative tasks, and volunteering in healthcare settings. Exhibits excellent interpersonal abilities and a strong work ethic, ensuring consistent performance across diverse environments.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Research Assistant

Autism Origins Lab at Queens College
New York, NY
07.2024 - 08.2025
  • Established relationships with local schools, businesses, and organizations
  • Distributed study materials for participant recruitment
  • Collaborated with team members to coordinate research activities and accomplish project goals within specified timelines
  • Organized community events and engage with community members to raise awareness for ASD and share the lab's mission
  • Administered questionnaires via phone to screen for study eligibility
  • Trained new research assistants in lab protocols and methods

Family Babysitter/Tutor

Independent contractor
New York, NY
12.2022 - 06.2024
  • Supervised and engaged with children during daily activities including playtime and meals
  • Prepared healthy meals/snacks for children
  • Enforced household rules and managed behavior in a positive, patient manner
  • Communicated any concerns or updates to parents
  • Provided academic assistance and tutoring in reading and math
  • Assisted with homework assignments and test preparation

Barista

Starbucks
New York, NY
12.2019 - 03.2020
  • Operated the cash register
  • Engaged with customers by greeting and answering questions pertaining to merchandise
  • Prepared food and beverages according to customer's preferences
  • Kept tidy and organized work environment by cleaning restrooms, customer eating areas, and coffee machines

Administrative Assistant

Venuti & Venuti LLC
Flushing, NY
07.2016 - 12.2018
  • Maintained clean and presentable office
  • Maintained physical and electronic filing systems to keep records current
  • Destroyed files and materials upon request using paper shredder to prevent data breaches
  • Contacted clients via phone to ensure timely payments

ER Volunteer

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital
Valley Stream, NY
09.2015 - 06.2016
  • Transported laboratory results, biological specimens, and patient records to correct locations upon request of nurses or doctors
  • Helped transport patients from room to room
  • Assisted in the distribution of food and in feeding patients
  • Changed linens on patient beds & maintained clean rooms
  • Restocked nursing stations with supplies

Education

Bachelor's - Psychology

Queens College
Flushing, NY
05-2025

High School -

St Francis Preparatory School
Fresh Meadows, NY
06.2018

Skills

  • Research methodologies
  • Collaboration
  • Creativity
  • Teamwork
  • Communication skills
  • Building rapport and trust
  • Community engagement
  • IRB compliance

Languages

Spanish, Fluent

Timeline

Research Assistant

Autism Origins Lab at Queens College
07.2024 - 08.2025

Family Babysitter/Tutor

Independent contractor
12.2022 - 06.2024

Barista

Starbucks
12.2019 - 03.2020

Administrative Assistant

Venuti & Venuti LLC
07.2016 - 12.2018

ER Volunteer

Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital
09.2015 - 06.2016

Bachelor's - Psychology

Queens College

High School -

St Francis Preparatory School