Lesika Pajany

Collected and managed quantitative and qualitative data from surveys, experiments, and interviews focused on health behaviors and family lifestyle; transcribed and coded interviews using Dedoose. Entered, cleaned, and analyzed data using SPSS; ensured accuracy and consistency in mixed-methods datasets across databases and spreadsheets Performed literature searches to support specific research aims, to support ongoing research and manuscript development; assisted with grant writing by compiling background data.

Undergraduate Research Assistant - Healthy Bearcats Family Lab, University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH

(2023-08 - 2024-08)

• Collected and managed quantitative and qualitative data from surveys, experiments, and interviews focused on health behaviors and family lifestyle; transcribed and coded interviews using Dedoose.
• Entered, cleaned, and analyzed data using SPSS; ensured accuracy and consistency in mixed-methods datasets across databases and spreadsheets
• Performed literature searches to support specific research aims, to support ongoing research and manuscript development; assisted with grant writing by compiling background data.
• Contributed to research report preparation and maintained lab organization to streamline workflow and support the project goals of WIC and HEMI.

Student Associate Caller - Digital Philanthropy Center, University of Cincinnati's Foundation - Cincinnati, OH

(2023-08 - 2026-04)

• Represented the University of Cincinnati as an ambassador by communicating university initiatives, goals, and accomplishments
• Collaborated with team members in a goal-driven environment to maximize fundraising success.
• Engaged alumni, parents, and friends of UC through phone calls to build rapport, update demographic information, and secure donations for the Foundation.
• Utilized SMS, email, and video tools to enhance outreach efforts and strengthen donor relations.

Teaching Fellow - Breakthrough Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH

(2025-06 - 2025-08)

• Created and delivered daily lesson plans in core academic subjects, adapting content to meet the diverse learning needs of middle school students from underrepresented communities, supporting educational equity and access.
• Facilitated student-centered instruction that promoted critical thinking, academic growth, and empowered youth
• Collaborated with peers and instructional coaches to foster inclusive, supportive classroom environments that addressed students' social and emotional well-being

Teaching Assistant - Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH

(2023-08 - 2025-05)

Courses Taught: Introduction to Psychology Lab (PSYC 1001L), Developmental Psychology (PSYC 2040) and Introduction to Cognitive Psychology (PSYC 2020)

• Evaluated assignments and lab reports, providing constructive feedback to enhance student learning.
• Facilitated group discussions and encouraged active student participation.
• Supported students individually and in groups by clarifying course content and answering questions.

Student Researcher - Institute for Policy Research, University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH

(2023-05 - 2023-08)

• Conducted mixed-methods survey research using WinCati software to collect quantitative and qualitative data from residents in Boone County, KY, Mason, OH, and Hamilton County, OH, on local water quality concerns.
• Facilitated telephone interviews combining structured and open-ended questions, enhancing communication and active listening skills while capturing nuanced community perspectives.
• Accurately recorded, managed, and ensured the integrity of both numeric and narrative survey data to support comprehensive data analysis.
• Contributed to understanding regional environmental health challenges, informing public health research and policy development.

Lead Tutor - University of Cincinnati's Center for Community Engagement, Bearcat Buddies - Cincinnati, OH

(2025-08 - 2026-04)

• Coordinate and manage tutoring logistics, including preparing sign-in sheets, overseeing materials, and maintaining tutoring schedules while adjusting for school breaks and holidays.
• Lead and mentor tutor group, facilitating weekly strategy introductions, conducting regular check-ins, and fostering a strong sense of community and accountability among peers.
• Provide ongoing feedback and support, tracking attendance, following up with absent tutors, and reporting key developments and concerns to CCE for continuous program improvement.

Tutor - University of Cincinnati's Center for Community Engagement, Bearcat Buddies - Cincinnati, OH

(2024-08 - 2026-04)

• Collaborated with children in Cincinnati Public Schools to support their academic success and personal development.
• Promoted learning through individualized instruction and mentoring, enhancing both students' educational growth and my own leadership skills.

Ambassador - University of Cincinnati's Center for Community Engagement, Bearcat Buddies - Cincinnati, OH

(2025-01 - 2025-08)

• Organized recruitment efforts by tabling, attending events, and posting flyers, increasing awareness of tutoring opportunities.
• Delivered presentations to students, community members, and organizations, showcasing strong communication and public speaking skills.
• Supported program operations by assisting with projects, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving abilities.

Student Supervisor - Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati's Medical Center, Falls Risk Reductions Program - Cincinnati, OH

(2025-08)

• Train and supervise new volunteers on patient safety protocols and workflow, providing feedback to maintain high-quality care
• Manage volunteer schedules to ensure adequate coverage and serve as a liaison between volunteers and healthcare staff, facilitating effective communication and teamwork.
• Support the transformation of a volunteer-based fall-prevention initiative into a structured clinical research project, including drafting study objectives, preparing IRB submission materials, and outlining the research design.
• Collect and analyze patient safety data to identify trends in fall incidents and evaluate early outcomes of fall-prevention strategies.
• Assist in preparing an article for SAEM Pulse to highlight the project's development, challenges, and early insights.

Volunteer - Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati's Medical Center, Falls Risk Reductions Program - Cincinnati, OH

(2024-08 - 2026-05)

• Distributed non-slip socks and high-fall-risk bracelets to patients, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Conducted safety checks to confirm beds were locked, rails were up, and call lights were accessible to patients.
• Maintained organized records and prepared detailed lists to track patient needs and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
• Collaborated with healthcare staff to address patient safety concerns promptly and efficiently.
• Provided compassionate support to patients, contributing to a positive hospital experience.

Volunteer - Brain Tumor Center: Companionship Program, Department of Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati's Hospital Medical Center - Cincinnati, OH

(2025-03 - 2025-07)

• Provided emotional support and companionship to patients diagnosed with brain tumors, fostering a sense of comfort and connection during extended hospital stays
• Engaged in meaningful conversations with patients and families to reduce anxiety, enhance well-being, and build trust.
• Collaborated with nurses and hospital personnel to monitor patient safety, acting as an extra set of eyes to help maintain a secure, supportive, and patient-centered environment.

Bachelor of Science - Psychology - University of Cincinnati (2022 - 2026)