Catherine Corridon
Oakley
Summary
Talented Instructor effectively facilitates learning for students of all ages by providing engaging, relevant instruction. Adapts teaching methods and instructional materials based on the varying needs, ages, abilities, and interests of students. Proficient in crafting lesson plans with clear objectives easily communicated to students.
Consistently earns top marks from students for fun, engaging, and in-depth classes.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Surf and Kayak Instructor
UCSB Surf and Kayak Camp
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Taught surf and kayak lessons for children and youth, adapting instruction to meet a variety of learning styles and abilities.
- Promoted safe and smart water practices, emphasizing confidence, awareness, and respect for the ocean and aquatic environments.
- Supervised campers during aquatic and recreational activities, ensuring safety and engagement at all times.
- Encouraged teamwork and personal growth through positive reinforcement and hands-on learning experiences.
Lifeguard Instructor
UCSB Recreation
06.2024 - 08.2025
- Taught CPR, First Aid, and lifeguarding courses using American Red Cross curriculum and standards.
- Led staff in-service training sessions to improve in and out of water safety, rescue techniques, and emergency response skills.
- Evaluated and coached staff and students to ensure adherence to safety procedures and certification requirements.
- Maintained high availability to support staff and address safety concerns or scheduling needs.
Staff Development Supervisor
UCSB Recreation
05.2024 - 08.2025
- Conduct new hire interviews and tryouts, maintaining a high standard of operation
- Conducted needs assessments to identify gaps in performance and develop targeted learning solutions for safer and healthier pool careers
- Interview lifeguards for promotion, based on performance evaluations
- Conduct new hire walkthrough and orientation processes
- Conduct Lead and Head Guard Orientation to ensure smooth transfer of knowledge and responsibility
- Demonstrated flexibility and responsiveness by being available to address problems as they arose.
Swim Instructor
04.2022 - 08.2025
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Mentored and trained new swim instructors on best practices.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
Environmental Educator
UCSB Cheadle Center
09.2024 - 12.2024
- Led hands-on outdoor education programs focused on environmental awareness, teamwork, and leadership.
- Communicated effectively in English and Spanish, supporting diverse groups of students and ensuring inclusive participation.
- Engaged students through interactive lessons, games, and activities that made learning fun and memorable.
- Maintained a safe, positive learning environment while encouraging curiosity and respect for nature.
Lifeguard
UCSB Recreation
10.2022 - 04.2024
- Monitored pools and surrounding areas for adherence to safety protocols.
- Helped students, patrons, and staff adjust to the pool and unfamiliar surroundings, resulting in better results during individual and group lessons
- Observed weather and water conditions and alerted visitors to potential dangers, storms, and rip currents.
- Provided customer service and responded to inquiries and complaints for optimal guest satisfaction.
Education
Associate of Arts - Global Studies
Los Medanos College
Pittsburg, CA05-2026
Associate of Arts - Global Studies
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA06-2025
Skills
- Certified Lifeguard (American Red Cross), CPR, First Aid, and AED certified
- Instruction & Coaching
- Outdoor & Experiential Education
- Leadership & Supervision
- Communication & Engagement, Bilingualism
- Risk Management & Emergency Response
- Team Collaboration
- Adaptability & Problem-Solving
Certification
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor — certified to teach Lifeguarding, CPR, AED, and First Aid and more
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification — trained in water rescue, emergency response, and safety management
- CPR/AED/First Aid Certified — current and in good standing
- Water Safety & Instructional Skills — advanced in teaching swimming, rescue techniques, and aquatic safety practices
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Surf and Kayak Instructor
UCSB Surf and Kayak Camp
06.2025 - 08.2025
Environmental Educator
UCSB Cheadle Center
09.2024 - 12.2024
Lifeguard Instructor
UCSB Recreation
06.2024 - 08.2025
Staff Development Supervisor
UCSB Recreation
05.2024 - 08.2025
Lifeguard
UCSB Recreation
10.2022 - 04.2024
Swim Instructor
04.2022 - 08.2025
Associate of Arts - Global Studies
Los Medanos College
Associate of Arts - Global Studies
University of California, Santa Barbara