Willa Richards
New York,NY
Summary
Rising senior at Fordham University, double majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing, and theology/religious studies. With over four years of experience in hospitality, I hold strong communication, problem-solving, and customer engagement skills. Passionate about storytelling, fostering meaningful connections, and collaboration.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Recreation Intern
Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Avon, CO
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Led daily guest activities for people of all ages, including nature walks, arts and crafts, S'mores events, bingo, and trivia.
- Promoted resort programming and drove customer engagement through direct, personalized interaction with guests.
- Supported event setup and logistics for programs, including the weekly General Manager Welcome event.
- Identified ways to improve upon daily operations, and developed an Innovation Project to enhance the guest experience.
- Shadowed different departments to gain a comprehensive understanding of resort operations.
- Consistently recognized by guests and staff for attention to detail, enthusiasm, and meticulous care.
Member Services Receptionist
Bay Harbor Yacht Club
Bar Harbor, MI
05.2024 - 08.2025
- Provided exceptional hospitality and customer service at the award-winning Bay Harbor Yacht Club, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for members and guests.
- Greeted members and visitors, assisting with reservations, inquiries, event coordination, meeting arrangements, and technical support to ensure a positive club experience.
- Managed front desk operations, including answering phones, responding to emails, and maintaining accurate records.
- Acted as a liaison between club members, staff, and management, ensuring efficient and effective communication throughout the club.
- Collaborated with a diverse team to support a positive environment for both members and staff. Trained and supported the onboarding of a new team member.
- Recognized by members and colleagues for strong attention to detail, professionalism, and a consistently welcoming demeanor. Received the club WOW award.
Youth Development Specialist
Johnsonburg Camp and Retreat Center
Johnsonburg, NJ
06.2022 - 08.2023
- Provided hospitality and support to diverse populations, including children, elderly guests, and individuals with disabilities, in an overnight retreat center setting.
- Supervised and ensured the physical and emotional safety of children ages 5–17, leading daily activities such as zip-lining, team-building, hiking, and campfire meals.
- Fostered an inclusive, supportive environment by facilitating conflict resolution, and promoting group cohesion.
- Maintained strict adherence to camp schedules, ensuring smooth transitions, and effective time management for assigned groups.
- Led outdoor education and survival-based activities, emphasizing safety, engagement, and environmental awareness.
- Ensured cleanliness and safety by following camp protocols, contributing to a secure and healthy living environment for all guests and staff.
- Earned certifications in Ropes Course Safety, CPR, and First Aid to further support guest well-being.
- Assisted in planning and preparing meals for over 60 children and adults daily, ensuring compliance with food safety guidelines and health code standards.
- Maintained a clean and sanitary kitchen environment by properly washing dishes, utensils, and work surfaces after each meal service.
- Supported sustainability efforts by actively minimizing food waste, and implementing environmentally conscious kitchen practices.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English and Theology/Religious Studies
Fordham University
New York, NY05-2026
Skills
- Customer service
- Problem solving
- Team collaboration
- Youth engagement
- Project management
- Effective communication
- Event planning
- Sales
- Team building
- Public speaking
- Cross-cultural communication
- Theological studies
Affiliations
- Depop Campus Manager Program
- Fordham Jewish Studies Fellowship
- Study Abroad Participant
Languages
French
Limited
English
Native/ Bilingual
Accomplishments
- Multi Dean's List Recipient
- Invitation for induction into Theta Alpha Kappa, the national Honor Society for Theology and Religious Studies.
- Bay Harbor Yacht Club WOW Award
Timeline
Recreation Intern
Marriott Vacations Worldwide
05.2025 - 08.2025
Member Services Receptionist
Bay Harbor Yacht Club
05.2024 - 08.2025
Youth Development Specialist
Johnsonburg Camp and Retreat Center
06.2022 - 08.2023
Bachelor of Arts - English and Theology/Religious Studies
Fordham University
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