PENELOPE GARZA

As a camp counselor, I helped set up each morning and stayed after to clean up, making sure everything was ready for the kids. I led crafts, played sports, read books, and spent time with them on the playground. During lunch, I checked food temperatures, set up the hand-washing station, passed out meals, and handled cleanup. The kids ranged from ages 3 to 18, which gave me the chance to interact with all kinds of personalities. That was my favorite part—getting to know each child, watching them grow, and building real relationships over the summer.

As a referee for intramural soccer and flag football, I enforced rules, kept games running smoothly, and encouraged fair play and sportsmanship. I communicated with players to resolve disputes respectfully and helped create a positive, inclusive environment. I also assisted with field setup and breakdown—assembling goals, preparing equipment, and handling post-game cleanup to ensure everything was ready for the next match.

• In my role as assistant manager, my responsibilities included opening and closing the set, managing the register, and ensuring accurate cash handling which included counting drawers and making bank deposits. I also supported customers with purchases, operated the computer system, and kept everything running smoothly during busy holiday seasons. It was a fast-paced environment, and I enjoyed the challenge of balancing leadership with hands-on service.

• As a sales associate at Clackamas Mall during the holiday seasons, I photographed children with Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, operated the camera equipment, and assisted families throughout their visit. I also handled customer transactions using the point-of-sale system and provided friendly, efficient service. When I stepped into the assistant manager role, I took on responsibilities like opening and closing the store, counting registers, and making bank deposits. The job combined my love for working with kids and creating joyful, memorable experiences in a fast-paced, festive environment.

• As a children's soccer referee for ages 4 to 10, I helped keep games running smoothly while promoting fair play and making sure the kids felt safe, supported, and engaged. I regularly interacted with parents, navigated occasional disagreements, and worked to maintain a fun, positive atmosphere for everyone involved. The experience taught me how to stay calm under pressure, think on my feet, and build meaningful connections with young players.