Makayla J. McNeal
Norfolk,VA
Summary
People-centric, highly dedicated professional with substantial experience in the hospitality industry; highly motivated to leverage current academic knowledge to coordinate injury prevention and performance enhancement as well as ensure delivery of exceptional care as a Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Hostess/Server
Canvas Social Cuisine
Norfolk, VA
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Greet and welcome all guests with a friendly and professional demeanor, creating a positive first impression of the restaurant. Communicate with all reservations for every shift to ensure the maximum experience prior to arrival. Coordinate with the kitchen and serving staff to ensure a smooth flow of service while minimizing wait times for guests. Assist in coordinating special events and dining arrangements along with executing successful and memorable dining experiences. Promote events and restaurant specials for every shift in an effective manner including in house and on social media.
- After taking a break from work to focus on school towards the end of 2022, it was nerve racking to jump back into a fast-paced work environment, especially one that was unfamiliar. My experience gave me confidence though. After working with this business for almost two years, I proved to be dependable and helpful in the workplace. With several opportunities to work in different areas, I pride myself on learning all aspects of the restaurant and being able to adapt and help whenever and wherever necessary.
Lead Hostess, Lead Cashier, Server
The Twisted Crab
Chesapeake, VA
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Addressed and resolved customer inquiries, complaints, and issues in a professional and timely manner. Fostered a positive work environment and ensured delivery of exceptional customer service. Coordinated daily cash-handling procedures while maintaining accuracy and accountability for all transactions. Maintained awareness of security protocols to prevent theft, loss, and fraudulent activities within the store.
- Upon being hired with multiple years of customer service experience and working in a newly established location, I was promoted to Lead Hostess and tasked with training the new host/hostess employees after completing my training in the previous few months. After hosting for about 6-7 months, I transferred to a cashier position. Because of my availability at multiple locations and unique experience, shortly thereafter I was promoted to be one of several Lead Cashiers. I also took advantage of the opportunity to begin serving a few months before my departure in December of 2022. On top of the various opportunities to move up in the company, I am most appreciative of this experience for molding me into a more efficient worker and testing my capabilities.
Education
Bachelor of Science (BS) - Kinesiology and Exercise Science
Norfolk State University
Norfolk, VA05.2027
Bachelor of Degree Type - General Studies
Tidewater Community College
Portsmouth, VA01.2022
High School Diploma - General Studies
Nansemond River High School
Suffolk, VA01.2021
Skills
- Service Delivery
- Committed to providing compassionate care and fostering client independence
- Regulatory Compliance
- Capable of maintaining up-to-date policies, practices, and protocols while adhering to set regulations
- People Engagement
- Passionate for educating and empowering people to achieve fitness goals and reach fullest potential
- Team Coordination
- Possesses exceptional communication skills to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
Affiliations
- Girl Scouts of America
- DECA
- Ladies of Distinction
- Maliyah Towns Giveback
- NRHS Marching Band
- League of Extraordinary Women
Interests
Athletics, Performing Arts, Community Service
Additional Experience
- Student Athletic Training Aid, Norfolk State Football Norfolk, VA (2024 Present)
- Platinum Dolls Dance Coach, Nansemond River HS Marching Band Suffolk, VA (2022 2023)
- Sales Associate, Bed Bath & Beyond Suffolk, VA (2020)
- Team Member, Chick-fil-A Restaurants Suffolk, VA (2019)
Academic Highlights
- Norfolk State University Norfolk, VA
- 2022 Present
- Student, Exercise Science and Sociology
- Perform comprehensive research on the latest developments in kinesiology and exercise science to stay abreast of industry advancements. Secure knowledge about leveraging personalized exercise programs as per fitness goals and health needs. Attend hands-on practical sessions to gain experience in conducting fitness assessments and exercise interventions. Participate in workshops and seminars to expand knowledge and skills in the specialized area of kinesiology.
- Completed coursework on Foundation of Education, Human Physiology, Curriculum and Methods in Health Education, Motor Learning, Human Growth and Development, and Coaching and Officiating.
- Utilized state-of-the-art technology for evaluating and enhancing individuals fitness and physical capabilities.
- Added a minor in Sociology to expand on previous experiences with coaching and mental health
Community Service
- Girl Scouts of America
- DECA
- Ladies of Distinction
- Maliyah Towns Giveback
- NRHS Marching Band
- League of Extraordinary Women
Timeline
Hostess/Server
Canvas Social Cuisine
01.2024 - 01.2025
Lead Hostess, Lead Cashier, Server
The Twisted Crab
01.2020 - 01.2022
High School Diploma - General Studies
Nansemond River High School
Bachelor of Degree Type - General Studies
Tidewater Community College
Bachelor of Science (BS) - Kinesiology and Exercise Science
Norfolk State University