Melissa Zolnowski
Buffalo ,NY
Summary
Skilled Lifeguard consistently remains calm and focused in stressful environments. Talented in swim instruction for all ages. Committed to promoting safety in and around large bodies of water. Certified in First Aid/CPR/AED. Enthusiastic Student Teacher with good leadership and interpersonal skills. Talented in providing strong quality instruction and creating positive learning environments. Dedicated to helping creative supportive, stimulating and learning-focused classroom environments.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
After School Care
Boys And Girls Club
Cheektowaga NY
09.2021 - Current
- Created a welcoming environment that promoted socialization and peer interaction among students.
- Acted as a mentor for students facing personal challenges or difficulties within the school setting, establishing trust-based relationships that supported growth over time.
- Coordinated with school staff to identify areas where students required additional support or resources.
- Led group games and physical activities, promoting teamwork skills and encouraging active lifestyles for students.
Lifeguard
Town Of Cheektowaga
Cheektowaga, NY
06.2018 - 08.2022
- Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR to offer individuals in distress optimal support.
- Ensured swimmer safety by vigilantly monitoring pool area and enforcing rules.
- Monitored safety of guests in and around swimming pool.
- Provided friendly customer service to guests and addressed concerns.
- Attentively monitored swimmers to identify distress.
- Educated patrons on safety protocols and enforced safety rules.
Retail Sales Associate Cashier
Cracker Barrel
Cheektowaga, NY
07.2020 - 05.2021
- Maintained a clean and organized store environment, contributing to a positive customer experience.
- Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
- Handled high volume transactions during peak periods without compromising service quality or accuracy.
- Operated POS terminals and cash drawer balancing.
Lead Swim Instructor
Stingrays Swim Team
Cheektowaga Ny
09.2020 - 01.2021
- Developed strong rapport with students, resulting in increased engagement and enthusiasm during lessons.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement through regular self-assessment exercises designed to identify areas of strength or growth potential for both instructors and swimmers alike.
- Streamlined communication between parents, students, and staff by organizing regular progress reports and updates on swimmer achievements.
- Ensured the safety of all participants by maintaining vigilance during lessons and enforcing pool rules and regulations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Childhood Education/ Special Education
Canisius College
Buffalo, NY05.2025
High School Diploma -
Cheektowaga High School
Cheektowaga, NY06.2021
Skills
- Creativity and imagination
- Patience and Empathy
- Reliability and punctuality
- Leadership Qualities
- Safety awareness
- Child Supervision
- Homework Assistance
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Child Development Understanding
- Housekeeping
- CPR training
- Lesson Planning
- Classroom Instruction
- Recreational Activities
Accomplishments
Earned Girl Scout "Gold Award". equivalent to a eagle scout in boys scouts. Seniors and Ambassadors earn the Gold Award—the highest award in Girl Scouting—by developing and carrying out lasting solutions to issues in their neighborhoods and beyond.
Timeline
After School Care
Boys And Girls Club
09.2021 - Current
Lead Swim Instructor
Stingrays Swim Team
09.2020 - 01.2021
Retail Sales Associate Cashier
Cracker Barrel
07.2020 - 05.2021
Lifeguard
Town Of Cheektowaga
06.2018 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Childhood Education/ Special Education
Canisius College
High School Diploma -
Cheektowaga High School