Zaniah McDowell
Gastonia,North Carolina
Summary
A reflective and ambitious student, guided by curiosity and a commitment to growth. Dedicated to transforming challenges into opportunities for learning, she seeks to engage with diverse perspectives, pursue excellence, and leave a lasting impact on both her community and the wider world.
Nurtured passion for education in collaborative learning environment, developing strong communication and problem-solving abilities. Excelled in adapting teaching methods to meet diverse student needs and enhancing understanding of complex subjects. Seeking to transition into new field, leveraging these transferrable skills to make positive impact.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Employee
Publix Super Markets
Gastonia, NC
06.2022 - Current
- At Publix, I provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with their needs and ensuring a positive experience. I work in multiple roles, including cashier, deli clerk, bakery clerk, and grocery clerk, handling tasks such as food preparation, stocking, and product organization. I collaborate with team members to maintain a clean, efficient, and welcoming store environment.
Model & Prom Stylist
Bedazzled Prom & Bridal
Gastonia, NC
12.2024 - Current
Worked as a Prom and Bridal Stylist at Bedazzled Bridal & Formal, assisting clients in finding the perfect dresses and accessories for special events while boosting their confidence and ensuring a memorable experience. Provided personalized styling advice, fittings, and support to help clients feel their best. Successfully sold 103 prom dresses and accessories in five months, demonstrating strong customer service, sales, and interpersonal skills.
Tutor
Ivy League Academics
Gastonia, NC
11.2025 - Current
Serve as a tutor for Ivy League Academics, providing personalized instruction and academic support to students ages 6–18 across all subjects. Develop tailored lesson plans, explain complex concepts, and monitor student progress to ensure understanding and mastery. Foster a supportive and engaging learning environment that builds confidence, critical thinking, and study skills.
Prosecuting Teen Court Attorney
NC Teen Court
Gastonia, NC
12.2024 - Current
Served as a Teen Court attorney, prosecuting cases for first-time youth offenders, preparing and presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and delivering opening and closing statements. Advocated for fair and just outcomes while collaborating with judges, fellow attorneys, and volunteers, gaining hands-on experience in courtroom procedures, legal research, and case management. Developed strong public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills through active participation in all aspects of the judicial process.
Education
Associate of Science - true
Piedmont Community Charter School
Gastonia, NC05-2026
Associate of Arts - Criminal Justice Certification
Gaston College
Dallas, NC05-2026
Skills
- Public Speaking
- Leadership
- Event Planning
- Coordination
- Mentoring
- Peer Counseling
- Multicultural Communication
- Adaptability
- Sales
Accomplishments
- 800+ Hours of Community Service, 2022-Current
- Girl Scout: Daisy,Brownie,Junior,Cadette, 2016-Current
- Student Council Class President, 2022-2024
- National Honor Society Vice President, August 2024-2025
- National Honor Society President, August 2025-2026
- Top Teens of America 1st Vice President, November 2024-Current
- NAACP & NCNW Top Teens Chair, August 2025
- Student Leadership Elevation Church Graduate, May 2024
- Bible Club Co-Leader, August 2022-Current
- Multicultural Club, August 2022-2025
- Varsity Cheerleader, August 2022-2024
- Kind Minds Club, August 2022-2025
- Yearbook Staff, August 2023-2025
- Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy Captain, August 2025-Current
- Dancing for Future Stars: Boys and Girls Club Speaker: Raised over $700k, May 2025
- Faviana Prom Dress Ambassador, November 2025-Current
Timeline
Tutor
Ivy League Academics
11.2025 - Current
Model & Prom Stylist
Bedazzled Prom & Bridal
12.2024 - Current
Prosecuting Teen Court Attorney
NC Teen Court
12.2024 - Current
Employee
Publix Super Markets
06.2022 - Current
Associate of Arts - Criminal Justice Certification
Gaston College
Associate of Science - true
Piedmont Community Charter School
Legal Civic Engagement
- Prosecuting Teen Court Attorney, 2024-Current
Travel Cultural Experiences
- Exchange Student, Germany, London, 2024
- Exchange Student, Peru, 2025
Awards
- Margaret Wilson Cabiness Youth Award, September 2025
- 2024 AKA Silver Debutante Winner
- Teen Court Summit Winner - Prosecuting Attorney, April 2025
- Optimist International Essay Competition Winner, March 2025
- Teens Changing Gaston County $750 Grant Recipient, February 2025
- Teens Changing Gaston County $800 Grant Recipient, January 2026
- Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy Student of the Year Finalist, January 2026
- Girl Scouts Gold Award, January 2026
References
- Anne Mallone, PCCS, anne.mallonee@pccharter.org
- Raj Mirchandani, Employer, rajm8810@gmail.com
- Destiny Feemster, Academic Coach, destinynfeemster@gmail.com
- Rhonda McCurry, English Teacher, PCCS, rhonda.mccurry@pccharter.org