Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Awards
LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Languages
References
Timeline
Generic

NEJLA KARIC

Toledo

Summary

Experienced in sociology with a focus on inclusive instruction and curriculum development, skilled in both independent and collaborative work. Proven ability to adapt and lead, with a background in research methods and cross-cultural communication. International perspective as a former Division I athlete, committed to equity and growth in higher education.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Donor Outreach Assistant

University of Toledo AT
Toledo
05.2025 - Current
  • Cultivated inclusive relationships through tailored communication strategies for diverse donor and community backgrounds.
  • Fostered respectful engagement with alumni, stakeholders, and local partners.
  • Partnered with cross-functional teams to develop initiatives promoting equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Water Safety Instructor

University of Toledo REC Center
Toledo
10.2021 - 05.2025
  • Designed and delivered accessible curriculum for diverse learners of all ages and abilities.
  • Created inclusive learning environments that fostered empathy, patience, and individual growth.
  • Adapted teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles, ensuring effective communication.
  • Received positive feedback for establishing meaningful connections with students and promoting engagement.

Volunteer Observer

Monroe County Sheriff's Office
Monroe
05.2024 - 06.2024
  • Observed crisis intervention strategies for mental health challenges and complex family dynamics.
  • Gained insight into structural and interpersonal social problems affecting vulnerable communities.
  • Developed understanding of trauma-informed, empathetic approaches to address real-world social issues.

Research Assistant

Cantonal Ministry of Internal Affairs
Sarajevo
06.2021 - 08.2021
  • Researched migration patterns and social issues affecting diverse communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to analyze demographic challenges and formulate actionable insights.
  • Managed reports, coordinated meetings, and supported project logistics through strong organizational skills.

Education

Master of Arts - Sociology

University of Toledo
Toledo, OH, USA
05.2025

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice

University of Toledo
Toledo, OH, USA
05.2023

Skills

  • Curriculum development and inclusive instruction
  • Empathy and cross-cultural competency
  • Student mentoring
  • Communication skills
  • Research methods and social analysis
  • Team collaboration
  • Leadership abilities
  • Multilingual communication

Awards

Aquatics Department Employee of the Year, UT (2021-2022), CSC Academic All- District Honoree 2025, Mid-American Conference Commissioner's Award (2021-2024), President's Honor List (Fall 2020, 2021, 2022; Spring 2021, 2023),Dean’s List Spring 2022, Fall 2023; Spring 2024; Fall 2024,Recipient of the gold medallion of the City of Sarajevo and acknowledged by the City’s Mayor

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Team Captain & NCAA Division I Student-AthleteUniversity of Toledo, Swimming & Diving

  • Led a team of 30+ student-athletes from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds as Captain (2023–24)
  • Balanced 20+ hours of weekly training with a full academic course load, demonstrating strong time management and discipline
  • Mentored younger teammates and fostered an inclusive, supportive team environment

National AthleteBosnia & Herzegovina National/Olympic Swimming Team

  • Represented Bosnia at the World Championships (2016) and European Championships (2015, 2017)
  • Promoted cross-cultural understanding and team collaboration through international competition and travel

Languages

English
Full Professional
Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian
Native/ Bilingual

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Donor Outreach Assistant

University of Toledo AT
05.2025 - Current

Volunteer Observer

Monroe County Sheriff's Office
05.2024 - 06.2024

Water Safety Instructor

University of Toledo REC Center
10.2021 - 05.2025

Research Assistant

Cantonal Ministry of Internal Affairs
06.2021 - 08.2021

Master of Arts - Sociology

University of Toledo

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice

University of Toledo