Mariana Santillan
Chicago,IL
Summary
Highly motivated and organized student with a strong track record of balancing academics, volunteer work, and caregiving. Developed leadership, time management, and problem-solving skills through caregiving, community service, and programs like Mikva Challenge and the Metro Achievement Center’s Engineering Apprenticeship. These experiences have fueled my passion for social impact and honed my ability to tackle challenges creatively. Eager to leverage my skills in leadership, collaboration, and community engagement to contribute to the SHE Oncology Program at UChicago, while furthering my passion for science, healthcare, and social change.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Intern
Mikva Challenge Foundation
02.2024 - Current
- Participated in leadership workshops and training to strengthen skills in community organizing, public speaking, and advocacy.
- Collaborated with council members to address issues affecting high school students and the local community.
- Organized events, campaigns, and discussions to empower youth voices and promote civic engagement.
- Advocated for student needs alongside educators and community leaders to create meaningful change.
- Contributed to community development through hands-on service projects and collaborations.
Volunteer
St Adrian Catholic Church
06.2022 - Current
- Played flute during weekly choir practices and performances, enhancing the choir’s sound.
- Collaborated with choir members, directors, and volunteers to prepare for services and events.
- Attended rehearsals and performances every Sunday, fostering a positive environment for young singers.
- Contributed to the cultural and spiritual experience of the church community through engaging musical performances.
Babysitter
My Family
03.2018 - Current
- Supervised and ensured the safety of younger siblings, providing emotional support and maintaining a nurturing environment.
- Prepared meals, assisted with hygiene, and supported schoolwork and daily responsibilities.
- Organized activities to foster creativity and development.
- Managed daily routines, including schedules and meal times, until parents returned home.
- Balanced academic responsibilities while maintaining focus and organization throughout school.
- Ensured a clean and organized environment for the well-being of siblings.
Intern
Metro Achievement Center
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Participated in workshops on engineering basics, including mechanics, design, and structural integrity.
- Collaborated with peers to design and build a functional hand prototype using cardboard and rubber bands.
- Applied problem-solving skills to address design challenges and refine the model.
- Gained experience in teamwork, communication, and leadership while bringing the project to life.
- Learning about various engineering fields and how they contribute to real-world innovations.
Education
Whitney M Young Magnet High School
Chicago, Il06-2026
Skills
- Time Management & Organization: Efficiently balanced school, caregiving, and volunteer activities
- Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Developed creative solutions for hands-on engineering projects and resolving unexpected challenges in caregiving
- Leadership & Dependability: Provided consistent care for younger siblings, managed household routines, and volunteered weekly in the children’s choir
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Collaborated with team members in engineering and choir, mentored younger siblings, and provided a positive learning environment
- Technical & Creative Skills: Gained engineering knowledge through hands-on projects and applied musical skills through flute performance in a group setting
- Community Engagement: Contributed to the community by volunteering at my local church and participating in programs promoting civic engagement
Accomplishments
Mikva Challenge’s 2025 National Youth Summit – Washington, D.C.
Accepted Participant (2025)
The People's Music School Gala Night – Chicago, IL
Flutist, Performer (2025)
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Intern
Mikva Challenge Foundation
02.2024 - Current
Intern
Metro Achievement Center
06.2023 - 08.2023
Volunteer
St Adrian Catholic Church
06.2022 - Current
Babysitter
My Family
03.2018 - Current
Whitney M Young Magnet High School
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