Sophie Leitch
Victoria,BC
Summary
Dynamic student with a rich background in environmental education and community engagement, notably at Five Star Whale Watching. Excelled in delivering impactful presentations and fostering wildlife conservation awareness. Demonstrated exceptional interpersonal skills and adaptability, with a proven track record in team leadership and organizational excellence.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Naturalist and Office Staff
Five Star Whale Watching
Victoria, British Columbia
06.2024 - Current
- Developed and delivered presentations on local Salish Sea and British Columbia ecology and geography to guests.
- Performed secretarial duties in the office, including managing payments, overseeing communications with customers and suppliers, answering phone calls, and keeping records for accounting purposes.
- Conducted safety briefings prior to boarding as well as on vessel, including the demonstration of safety equipment use.
- Enriched guest experience by conversing about their backgrounds and various interests related to science and culture during tours.
- Managed customer interactions in the office, resolving conflicts with respect and efficiency.
- Adhered to environmental and legal guidelines for safe ecotourism practices.
- Promoted wildlife conservation by discussing relevant topics during delivered talks.
Club Vice Chair
Surfrider
Victoria, BC
01.2024 - Current
- Managed club activities with fellow executives to ensure appropriate conduct with the University of Victoria's club policies and public guidelines.
- Oversaw fundraising activities.
- Participated in remote beach clean-up activities on the Vancouver Island coast and the Gulf Islands in collaboration with Parks Canada.
Dog Walker
Pawsentials
Victoria, BC
02.2024 - 08.2024
- Provided quality exercise and enrichment for animals under my supervision.
- Managed client interactions with diligence and care.
- Worked outdoors for full days in various weather conditions, including high heat, and storms.
- Walked for several hours per day while managing up to eight dogs of varied sizes.
- Behaved mindfully to maintain a positive view of dog walkers and dog owners by the general public.
Learn to Row Coach
Edmonton Rowing Club
Edmonton, AB
05.2021 - 08.2023
- Cleaned, prepared, and organized equipment.
- Motivated athletes by providing positive feedback and encouragement.
- Developed skills in teaching rowing techniques from fellow coaches and club members.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Worked well in team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Coached over 100 beginner athletes of all ages
- Maintained property operating various equipment including riding lawnmower, weed-whacker, and hacksaw. Participated in construction work on floating dock.
Volunteer Meeting Host
Stupid Cancer
Remote
02.2020 - 04.2021
- Managed conflict and ensured individuals were secure to share stories and histories.
- Provided exceptional customer service by attentively listening to guest needs and promptly addressing any concerns or issues.
- Aided adolescent cancer patients in engaging with their community, processing difficult emotions and strengthening relationships.
- Followed company protocols to keep attendees safe and comfortable.
- Guided communication between participants to develop personal connections outside program hours.
Assistant Dance Instructor
Emerge Dance Academy
Edmonton, AB
09.2017 - 06.2019
- Worked in team-based environment to uphold quality and continuity of service to clients.
- Created healthy and safe learning environment for all students by implementing class rules and promoting mutual respect and gentle discipline.
- Planned, prepared and delivered lesson plans introducing students to dance techniques and ballet positions.
- Taught ballet and jazz dance classes for young students.
- Assisted instructors in lesson delivery while supervising and correcting students.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Victoria
Victoria, BC04.2027
High School Diploma -
Victoria School of The Arts
Edmonton, AB06.2022
Skills
- Working with youth
- Team Collaboration
- Interpersonal Skills
- Reliability
- Physical fitness
- Comfort with long hours and manual labour
- Experience with farm work
- Experience with numerous farm animals
- Experience with horse riding and handling
- Problem-Solving Aptitude
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Organizational Skills
- Multitasking Abilities
- Team Leadership
Certification
- Class 5 Driver's License
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card
- Small Vessel Operator Proficiency
- Small domestic vessel basic safety
- First Aid and CPR-C
- Concussion Safety Training
- Bystander Intervention Training
- PADI Dive License
Education
Edmonton, AB,Victoria, BC
Contact
Victoria, BC V8N
Accomplishments
- Graduated high school with Honors with Distinction
- Awarded Childhood Cancer Identity Project scholarship for childhood cancer survivors pursuing a STEM education.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Naturalist and Office Staff
Five Star Whale Watching
06.2024 - Current
Dog Walker
Pawsentials
02.2024 - 08.2024
Club Vice Chair
Surfrider
01.2024 - Current
Learn to Row Coach
Edmonton Rowing Club
05.2021 - 08.2023
Volunteer Meeting Host
Stupid Cancer
02.2020 - 04.2021
Assistant Dance Instructor
Emerge Dance Academy
09.2017 - 06.2019
- Class 5 Driver's License
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card
- Small Vessel Operator Proficiency
- Small domestic vessel basic safety
- First Aid and CPR-C
- Concussion Safety Training
- Bystander Intervention Training
- PADI Dive License
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Victoria
High School Diploma -
Victoria School of The Arts
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