Rileigh Thomas

An experienced retail associate and student mentor with exceptional communication skills, committed to empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves by providing access to inclusive and sustainable clothing. A passionate advocate for fostering community connections through fashion, movement, and education.

Green Mountain Union HS, Chester VT • Paraprofessional   

January 2024 - Present

• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive support strategies for each student.
• Enhanced students' learning experiences by implementing individualized educational plans and adapting teaching methods for special needs students.
• Assisted teachers with classroom management and document coordination to maintain a positive learning environment.
• Maintained a positive attitude and affirmatively communicated with each student.

Free People, Burlington VT • Key Holder                 March 2021 - December 2023

• Applied in-depth knowledge of current fashion trends, including fit, fabric, and style, to provide expert guidance to customers.
• Executed thorough opening and closing procedures, including composing company communications, reconciling daily sales data, ensuring secure closure of registers, store lockdown, and activation of alarm systems.
• Greeted customers with a welcoming demeanor and promptly addressed inquiries and resolved issues to enhance overall customer experience.
• Maintained an organized and visually appealing work environment by consistently standardizing clothing displays and styling mannequins per company standards.
• Skillfully handled cash and card transactions at the register and processed returns both in-store and online with precision and efficiency.

Upward Bound UVM, Burlington VT •  Youth Counselor

June 2022 - August 2022 

• Tutored high school students in the Upward Bound program, through Burlington H.S. and UVM. 
• Teacher’s Assistant in college-level courses 
• Planned and led daily enrichment activities, including; outdoor games, journaling, meditation, yoga, etc. 
• Chaperoned student trip to Boston, MA.

Smitty’s Chester Market, Chester, VT • Cashier/Grocer                                                    June 2017 - January 2021

• Communicated effectively with team members and managers to ensure smooth operation of the checkout area and resolve customer issues promptly.
• Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
• Handled cash, credit, and debit card transactions with precision, balancing registers at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Labeled products, rotated stock and fronted merchandise for appealing display.

B.A. in Psychology, The University of Vermont (2020-2024)