MARYLOURDES SANTIAGO
New Hartford
Summary
Enthusiastic and community-minded communications professional with strong experience in public engagement, customer service, event coordination, and youth programming. Adept at representing organizations with professionalism, creating welcoming experiences, and supporting outreach initiatives. Organized, dependable, and committed to promoting positive community relations—seeking to contribute to local tourism development through strong communication, planning, and public-facing skills.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Guest Advocate
Target
08.2021 - Current
- Serve as a welcoming, knowledgeable point of contact for guests, enhancing visitor satisfaction and creating positive customer experiences.
- Provide product information and answer inquiries, ensuring guests feel informed, valued, and supported.
- Manage POS transactions, coupons, returns, and guest concerns with professionalism and accuracy.
- Maintain visually appealing service areas and merchandise displays.
- Contribute to a friendly, inclusive environment by promoting positive interactions with diverse customers.
- Demonstrate strong situational awareness and adherence to company standards to minimize loss and ensure safety.
Youth Employment Counselor
Oneida County Summer Youth Employment Program
07.2019 - 08.2019
- Matched youth participants with job placements based on interests, skills, and program requirements, supporting community workforce development.
- Designed and facilitated onboarding and orientation sessions for new participants.
- Organized and maintained confidential employee records, improving data accessibility and office efficiency.
- Assisted with implementation of people-related services, policies, and programs, strengthening departmental operations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communications & Public Relations
Utica University
Utica, NY05.2024
High School Diploma - undefined
New Hartford Senior High School
New Hartford, NY06.2019
Skills
- Public communication & visitor engagement
- Community engagement
- Activity coordination
- Strong writing & oral presentation skills
- Awareness of diverse perspectives
- Strong organizational skills
- Strong customer service skills
- Team collaboration & leadership
- Supportive mentoring for young individuals
- Organized recordkeeping & administrative support
Timeline
Guest Advocate
Target
08.2021 - Current
Youth Employment Counselor
Oneida County Summer Youth Employment Program
07.2019 - 08.2019
High School Diploma - undefined
New Hartford Senior High School
Bachelor of Arts - Communications & Public Relations
Utica University