Open To Work
Samantha Wheelis
Ann Arbor,MI
Work Preference
Summary
Dedicated environmental educator and researcher with a Master of Science in Environment & Sustainability and hands-on experience in conservation outreach, educational program delivery, and science communication. Skilled in developing engaging educational content for diverse audiences. Experienced in GIS-based field research, qualitative data collection, and creating multimedia materials to communicate conservation topics.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Camp Counselor
UMMNH Camp Explorations
Ann Arbor, Michigan
06.2026 - Current
- Led elementary-aged campers in hands-on science lessons and interactive activities, fostering engagement in ecology, natural history, and environmental science
- Facilitated group discussions to encourage communication and social skills development.
- Supervised daily camp operations, ensuring safety and adherence to policies.
Docent
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
Ann Arbor, Michigan
09.2025 - Current
- Led engaging, age-appropriate tours and interactive demonstrations on natural history, ecology, and biodiversity, enhancing audience understanding and appreciation of the environment
- Ran and delivered planetarium shows
- Facilitated hands-on learning experiences that fostered environmental awareness and curiosity about the natural world, inspiring participants to explore further
- Adapted educational content for inclusive audiences, ensuring accessibility for school groups, families, and community visitors, thereby broadening outreach and impact
Graduate Student Researcher
University of Michigan SEAS
Ann Arbor, Michigan
01.2025 - 04.2026
- Collected and analyzed qualitative and quantitative data through surveys, interviews, participatory observation, and GIS methods to support evidence-based decision-making
- Conducted field research on community-supported agriculture, resource sharing, and food system resilience in communities on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, informing local agricultural practices
- Developed educational materials synthesizing research on sustainable agricultural practices and community conservation
- Created documentary film to effectively communicate research findings to community members and academic audiences, enhancing understanding and engagement
Head Summer Camp Counselor
YMCA Of The Pines
Medford, NJ
06.2022 - 08.2025
- Led groups of up to 40 children, ensuring safety and fostering positive, a positive, inclusive environment
- Facilitated conflict resolution among campers to enhance teamwork and mutual respect
- Mentored 3–4 junior counselors, guiding them in effective camper engagement and support
Media and Data Consultant
Learn Gala
Ann Arbor, Michigan
01.2025 - 07.2025
- Edited and refined 20+ educational case studies, enhancing clarity, accuracy, and engagement for diverse learner audiences
- Organized and managed digital multimedia content in SeekCommons library, improving accessibility and resource utilization
- Analyzed data trends to inform educational program strategies and improvements.
- Developed data visualization dashboards for effective stakeholder communication.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance learning outcomes through data insights.
Administrative Assistant
The Ecology Center
Ann Arbor, Michigan
09.2024 - 04.2025
- Provided comprehensive administrative support to management, streamlining clerical tasks
- Spearheaded a process improvement project organizing digital files and documents into a shared, accessible Google Drive system
- Created promotional materials for programs and outreach campaigns to enhance visibility
Video Production Specialist
Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
09.2023 - 04.2024
- Directed, produced, and edited a documentary video showcasing barriers to tree planting in Philadelphia, collaborating with university researchers, PHS staff, and the US Forest Service to raise awareness
- Translated complex environmental research into engaging visual stories, enhancing public understanding and appreciation of ecological issues
- Collaborated with faculty to create educational videos and instructional media.
Education
Master of Science - Environment And Sustainability
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI04-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Film And Media Arts
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA12-2023
Skills
- Educational content creation
- Environmental research
- GIS
- Data analysis
- Film production
- Project management
- Community engagement
- Team leadership
- Public speaking
Accomplishments
- Merit Award Recipient at 2022 Impact Doc Awards
- Research Presenter at 2024 Human Development Conference
Timeline
Camp Counselor
UMMNH Camp Explorations
06.2026 - Current
Docent
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
09.2025 - Current
Graduate Student Researcher
University of Michigan SEAS
01.2025 - 04.2026
Media and Data Consultant
Learn Gala
01.2025 - 07.2025
Administrative Assistant
The Ecology Center
09.2024 - 04.2025
Video Production Specialist
Temple University
09.2023 - 04.2024
Head Summer Camp Counselor
YMCA Of The Pines
06.2022 - 08.2025
Master of Science - Environment And Sustainability
University of Michigan
Bachelor of Arts - Film And Media Arts
Temple University