Zaria Richardson
Charleston,SC
Summary
Biology student at Clemson University with experience in undergraduate research, healthcare volunteering, and customer service. Skilled in ecological field research, scientific data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific presentations. Strong communicator with demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to patient-centered service.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Undergraduate Researcher
Clemson University
Limón, Costa Rica
03.2026 - 03.2026
- Developed a collaborative research proposal investigating the effects of nutrient and deterrent treatments on foraging behavior of Atta cephalotes (leafcutter ants).
- Conducted field research during a 10-day faculty-led study abroad program in Limón, Costa Rica, collecting ecological data from active leafcutter ant colonies.
- Designed and implemented experiments using nutrient and deterrent treatments, randomized treatment placement, and control groups to evaluate leafcutter ant foraging preferences.
- Collected, analyzed, and interpreted ecological data using statistical analyses, including t-tests and ANOVA.
- Presented research findings at the Clemson Biological Sciences Undergraduate Research Symposium as a member of a four-person research team.
Crew Member
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Charleston, South Carolina
12.2022 - 08.2025
- Delivered excellent customer service in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
- Prepared food and beverages while maintaining food safety and sanitation standards.
- Operated cash register and processed customer transactions accurately.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure efficient operations and customer satisfaction.
- Trained new employees on daily procedures and customer service expectations.
Volunteer
MUSC
Charleston, South Carolina
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted Emergency Department and Cardiac Floor staff with daily patient support
- Restocked patient care carts and medical supplies
- Delivered meals, drinks, and comfort items to patients
- Responded to patient call bells by communicating the needs to the nursing staff
- Helped create a positive patient experience through compassionate service
- Total hours: 62
America Reads Tutor (Federal Study Work)
Clemson University
Clemson, South Carolina
01.2025 - 05.2025
- Worksite: Easley Elementary, Easley, SC
- Provided one-on-one tutoring support to a third-grade student to improve reading fluency, comprehension, and academic confidence.
- Developed individualized learning activities based on student needs and areas for improvement.
- Encouraged student engagement through positive reinforcement, and supportive instruction.
Cashier
Harris Teeter
Charleston, South Carolina
07.2021 - 11.2021
- Processed cash, credit, and electronic payments accurately.
- Assisted customers with purchases and resolved concerns professionally.
- Maintained an organized and welcoming checkout area.
- Demonstrated strong communication and multitasking skills during busy shifts.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Clemson University
Clemson, SC08.2026
Skills
- Ecological Field Research
- Statistical Analysis
- Scientific Data Collection
- Scientific Presentations
- Team Collaboration
- Communication
- Customer Service
- Time Management
- Problem Solving
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Data Interpretation
- Scientific Writing
- Patient Care
Certification
OSHA 10-Hour General Industry (Healthcare)
Awards
- Life Scholarship Recipient
- Meeting Street Scholarship Recipient
- Biological Sciences Undergraduate Research Symposium Presentation Certificate (2026) - Presented: "When Preference Isn't Clear: Nutrient Treatments and Foraging Variability in Leafcutter Ants."
Timeline
Undergraduate Researcher
Clemson University
03.2026 - 03.2026
Volunteer
MUSC
05.2025 - 08.2025
America Reads Tutor (Federal Study Work)
Clemson University
01.2025 - 05.2025
Crew Member
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
12.2022 - 08.2025
Cashier
Harris Teeter
07.2021 - 11.2021
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences
Clemson University