Maya Van Zandt
State College,PA
Summary
Dedicated junior at Penn State University pursuing a B.S. in Integrative Science with a minor in Biology, aspiring to attend dental school and specialize in pediatric care. Currently serving as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the PRO Health Lab, contributing to clinical and behavioral research focused on reducing high-risk drinking behaviors. Actively promoting inclusivity as the Activity Coordinator for Best Buddies at Penn State, organizing events for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Previous experience as a Dental Assistant, Anatomy and Physiology Lab Teaching Assistant, and intern at an online health assessment clinic demonstrates strong communication skills and a commitment to effectively managing confidential data.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Dental Assistant
Dr. Susan Yang DDS, PA
Houston, TX
04.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted dentist during procedures by preparing instruments, suctioning, and maintaining a sterile field to ensure efficient patient care.
- Educated patients on post-operative care, oral hygiene practices, and treatment plans to support long-term dental health.
- Managed patient records, scheduled appointments, and ensured proper sterilization and organization of dental tools and equipment.
- Accumulated over 500 dental assisting hours
Teaching Assistant
Penn State University
State College, PA
08.2025 - Current
- Facilitated classroom activities, enhancing student engagement and understanding of course material.
- Assisted in preparing instructional materials, ensuring alignment with educational objectives and standards.
- Supported grading and assessment processes, maintaining accuracy and consistency in student evaluations.
- Coordinated communication between students and faculty, streamlining information flow and addressing inquiries promptly.
- Independently led a group of students through hands-on dissections, guided them through complex anatomical and physiological concepts, and facilitated their understanding of course material through interactive instruction.
Health Assessment Clinic Intern
Meliora Health
10.2024 - 05.2025
- Managed the distribution, collection, and secure uploading of digital health assessments, ensuring accurate and timely data processing.
- Communicated effectively with parents, physicians, and team members to coordinate assessments and clarify follow-up needs.
- Maintained confidentiality while organizing patient files and supported workflow efficiency through proactive coordination and task management.
Research Assistant
PRO Health Lab
State College, PA
08.2025 - Current
- Conducted literature reviews to support project development and enhance research quality.
- Assisted in data collection and analysis, ensuring accuracy and reliability of results.
- Collaborated with team members to design and implement research methodologies.
- Maintained detailed records of experiments, facilitating easy retrieval of information.
- Participated actively in regular meetings with fellow researchers to discuss project updates, challenges faced, and lessons learned during ongoing activities.
- Conducted literature reviews to support hypothesis development and identify gaps in existing knowledge.
Nanny
Molly Kaplan
Houston, TX
03.2024 - 08.2024
- Built trust through open communication with both children and their parents.
- Exhibited patience and understanding when dealing with difficult behaviors from children.
- Encouraged intellectual growth through reading stories, playing educational games, and teaching basic concepts.
Cheerleading Coach
Woodlands Elite
Houston, TX
08.2022 - 07.2023
- Encouraged positive attitudes among the athletes while promoting good sportsmanship.
- Created and taught weekly practice drills to improve team performance in stunts, tumbling, jumps, cheers and dance routines.
- Participated in cheer camp to help cheerleaders learn new routines, improve skills and form closer team bonds.
Education
Integrative Science, Minor in Biology
Pennsylvania State University
State College, PA12-2026
High School Diploma - undefined
Lamar High School
Houston, TX06.2023
Timeline
Teaching Assistant
Penn State University
08.2025 - Current
Research Assistant
PRO Health Lab
08.2025 - Current
Dental Assistant
Dr. Susan Yang DDS, PA
04.2025 - 08.2025
Health Assessment Clinic Intern
Meliora Health
10.2024 - 05.2025
Nanny
Molly Kaplan
03.2024 - 08.2024
Cheerleading Coach
Woodlands Elite
08.2022 - 07.2023
High School Diploma - undefined
Lamar High School
Integrative Science, Minor in Biology
Pennsylvania State University