LaVayah Russell
Aberdeen,SD
Summary
College freshman with veterinary observation and hands-on exposure to clinical procedures, patient handling, and sanitation. Brings dependable customer service, team collaboration, and attention to detail from fast-paced retail and rides operations. Recognized for reliability, clear communication, and maintaining clean, safe work areas.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Cashier/Retail Sales Associate
Dunhams Sports
Aberdeen, South Dakota
08.2025 - 05.2026
- Provided friendly, professional customer service while assisting customers with merchandise and purchases.
- Managed back room operations, moving merchandise to the sales floor to ensure optimal inventory flow.
- Maintained clean and sanitary store areas to promote positive customer experience and safety.
- Collaborated in a fast-paced team environment to support operational efficiency and customer service.
- Exhibited dependability and attention to detail while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Rides Operator/ Customer Service
Storybookland
Aberdeen, SD
05.2022 - 09.2024
- Operated amusement rides, ensuring guest safety and adherence to procedures.
- Communicated clearly with customers regarding rules, time limits, and safety expectations.
- Showcased strong communication skills to effectively assist and engage with customers.
- Assisted customers with questions, directions, and purchases.
- Kept rides and work areas clean and organized to enhance guest experience.
- Worked responsibly in a busy environment requiring constant attention to safety and surroundings.
- Facilitated canoe, kayak, and pedal boat rentals, supervising customers for safety compliance.
Education
High School Diploma -
Ipswich High School
Ipswich , SD05-2026
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD10-2026
Skills
- Veterinary assisting
- Animal handling
- Cash Register Operations
- Inventory Management
- Customer Engagement
- Product Demonstration
- Team collaboration
- Time management skills
- Reliability and punctuality
RELEVANT ANIMAL & VETERINARY EXPERIENCE
Northern Plains Veterinary Clinic — Veterinary Intern Aberdeen Humane Society — Volunteer
Aberdeen, SD
- Shadowed veterinary professionals in a clinical setting and gained firsthand exposure to veterinary medicine.
- Observed multiple surgical procedures from preparation through completion.
- Observed safe, compassionate animal handling and patient-care practices.
- Developed a stronger understanding of surgical procedures, patient care, and the daily responsibilities of veterinary professionals.
- Observed the importance of cleanliness, safety, teamwork, and attention to detail in a veterinary setting.
- Strengthened knowledge of veterinary medicine and confirmed a strong interest in pursuing a career working with animals.
Aberdeen, SD
- Walked and interacted with shelter dogs while providing exercise, companionship, and attentive care.
- Practiced patience, responsibility, and safe animal-handling techniques.
- Gained firsthand experience working in an animal-care and shelter environment.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Aberdeen, SD Ipswich, SD
- Volunteered at the Aberdeen Humane Society by walking and caring for shelter dogs.
- Volunteered at the Gypsy Day Parade and supported local community activities.
- Volunteered throughout the community by mowing lawns and picking up trash.
- Assisted with school fundraising and general school events.
- Helped raise funds for the National Honor Society.
- Volunteered with Junior Tiger Club events, helping young children develop basketball skills.
Timeline
Cashier/Retail Sales Associate
Dunhams Sports
08.2025 - 05.2026
Rides Operator/ Customer Service
Storybookland
05.2022 - 09.2024
High School Diploma -
Ipswich High School
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
South Dakota State University