Karina Figueroa Santamaria
San Luis Obispo
Summary
Animal Science student with hands-on experience in animal handling, shelter medicine, research, wildlife care, and feline population management. Experienced in safely restraining animals, administering vaccines, microchipping, monitoring animal behavior, maintaining sanitary environments, and supporting animal welfare initiatives. Seeking a Veterinary Assistant position to apply strong clinical support, animal care, and communication skills in a veterinary setting.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
TNR Coordinator
Cal Poly Cat Program
San Luis Obispo
09.2023 - Current
- Trap, transport, and coordinate care for community cats through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) efforts.
- Assist with administering vaccines and microchipping during intake and treatment processes.
- Safely restrain cats during handling, examinations, and routine medical procedures.
- Monitor feline health and behavior and support recovery and welfare in a shelter environment.
- Collaborate with volunteers and program staff to improve cat welfare and reduce overpopulation.
Animal Care Intern
Monterey Zoo
Monterey
07.2025 - 08.2025
- Ensured clean and safe animal enclosures, promoting animal health and welfare.
- Observed animal behavior and documented health concerns and daily activities.
- Prepared enrichment activities to support physical and behavioral well-being.
- Informed visitors about animal care, habitats, and conservation efforts, enhancing their understanding and engagement.
- Managed inventory of food supplies, cleaning materials, and equipment, ensuring availability and readiness for daily operations.
Research Assistant
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo
09.2023 - 2025
- Prepared laboratory materials, samples, and reagents following standardized protocols.
- Recorded and organized experimental data with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Maintained sterile laboratory environments and assisted with equipment preparation and sanitation.
- Collaborated with faculty and peers to discuss findings, research progress, and problem-solving strategies.
Personal Assistant
Mony Realty
Salinas
08.2021 - 08.2022
- Coordinated schedules, records, and professional communications to ensure smooth operations in a fast-paced environment.
- Handled confidential information and facilitated efficient organizational operations.
- Enhanced interpersonal communication, time management, and multitasking skills to improve overall workflow.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA06-2027
Skills
- Animal Handling & Restraint
- Vaccine Administration Support
- Microchipping
- Shelter Medicine
- Feline Care
- Animal Observation & Behavior Monitoring
- Sanitation & Infection Control
- Time Management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Microsoft Office
Certification
Honor Roll
Hobbies and Interests
- Shelter Medicine
- Animal Welfare
- Wildlife Conservation
- Weightlifting
- Traveling
- Martial Arts
Timeline
Animal Care Intern
Monterey Zoo
07.2025 - 08.2025
TNR Coordinator
Cal Poly Cat Program
09.2023 - Current
Research Assistant
California Polytechnic State University
09.2023 - 2025
Personal Assistant
Mony Realty
08.2021 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
California Polytechnic State University