ZIHAM ABDI
Lorton,VA
Summary
Health Services student and Research Assistant with experience conducting literature reviews, survey research, data collection, and academic analysis focused on low-income and first-generation student populations. Coursework in health care policy, health administration, and statistics has strengthened my understanding of health systems, public programs, and health equity issues. Passionate about using research and evidence-based policy to improve outcomes for underserved communities.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Assistant
Virginia Commonwealth University – Remote
Richmond, VA
08.2025 - 05.2026
- Conducted literature reviews and organized academic research materials to support multiple ongoing projects
- Collaborated with faculty and research teams to prepare presentations, reports, and outreach materials for diverse audiences
- Maintain organized records, schedules, and project documentation with strong attention to detail
- Developed digital and social media content that enhanced engagement and visibility for research initiatives
- Manage communication workflows and support team coordination in fast-paced environments
Administrative Volunteer
Al Iman Mosque
Lorton, VA
09.2022 - 08.2024
- Coordinated planning and execution of community events and programming to enhance community engagement
- Facilitated communication between volunteers and community members to ensure effective event coordination
- Managed inventory tracking and organized operational materials to streamline organizational activities
- Supported administrative tasks while maintaining organized documentation and schedules
Team Member
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Lorton, VA
02.2023 - 07.2024
- Assisted 100+ customers per shift while maintaining friendly and efficient customer service
- Recommended menu items and customized orders to enhance customer satisfaction and meet dietary needs
- Operated POS systems and processed transactions accurately while addressing customer concerns to maintain service quality
- Collaborated with team members to streamline workflow during high-volume rush periods, ensuring timely service
- Maintained store cleanliness, organization, and inventory restocking throughout shifts
Dining Services Associate
Greenspring Senior Living
Springfield, VA
03.2021 - 06.2023
- Provided resident-centered hospitality and customer service to enhance dining experience for 100+ residents daily
- Fostered positive relationships with residents through attentive communication and tailored support
- Worked with staff to streamline dining operations and ensure consistent service quality
- Maintained sanitation, organization, and safety compliance standards across daily operations
Education
Bachelor of Science - Health Services
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA10-2028
Diploma -
South County High School
Lorton, VA06-2024
Skills
- Research & Literature Review
Quantitative & Qualitative Data Collection
Survey Administration
Data Analysis & Interpretation
Statistical Analysis
Academic Writing & Editing
APA Formatting & Citation Verification
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Word
Microsoft PowerPoint
Public Speaking & Presentations
Project Coordination
Team Collaboration
Leadership Positions
- Founder, First Generation Student Association, Established a support network connecting first-generation students with mentorship and campus resources
- Vice President, Middle Eastern and North African Student Alliance, Organized cultural and educational programming increasing campus engagement and cross-cultural dialogue
- Peer Mentor & Tutor, Provided academic mentorship and tutoring support through structured study sessions and coursework guidance
Timeline
Research Assistant
Virginia Commonwealth University – Remote
08.2025 - 05.2026
Team Member
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
02.2023 - 07.2024
Administrative Volunteer
Al Iman Mosque
09.2022 - 08.2024
Dining Services Associate
Greenspring Senior Living
03.2021 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Science - Health Services
Virginia Commonwealth University
Diploma -
South County High School