BIHARA THOTAHEWAGE
Clayton,VIC
Summary
- 3Rd-year undergraduate with a robust grounding in science with demonstrated proficiency in laboratory and research data analysis.
- Passionate for scientific research, scientific writing, and laboratory tasks.
- Team worker excelled in time management in both academic and fast-paced work settings.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
- Fast learner with the demonstrated ability to work under minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated leadership skills in fostering positive interpersonal connections in diverse cultural, social, and work settings.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Intern
Monash Sustainability Development Institute
11.2023 - 02.2024
- Completed SSE database coding training, enhancing skills in evidence assessment and synthesis.
- Actively participated in collaborative and independent screening of potential entries based on predefined criteria.
- Contributed to coding selected entries, improving database accuracy and relevance to sustainability goals.
- Attended weekly Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) personal development chats to enhance professional and academic skills.
- Conducted title and abstract screening, full-text screening, coding, and AMSTAR appraisal of research papers.
- Collaborated with colleagues to make coding decisions and participated in coding reconciliation meetings to maintain database integrity.
- Facilitated informed decision-making across various sectors, aligning with all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Senior Sales Assistant
Bakers Delight
03.2022 - Current
- Counted, balanced and reconciled cash and credit card payments and identified gaps in proper cash-handling procedures
- Managed cash control, and store opening and closing procedures
- Provided customers with detailed information about products while learning about personal needs, budget and desires of each person
- Used consultative sales techniques to understand customer needs and recommend relevant products and services
Casual Retail Sales Assistant
Seed Heritage
10.2023 - Current
- Increased sales by providing exceptional customer service and product knowledge.
- Improved store appearance with effective merchandising and creative displays.
- Built strong relationships with customers, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Assisted in inventory management, ensuring accurate stock levels for optimal sales performance.
- Boosted add-on sales through suggestive selling techniques and product recommendations.
- Maintained clean, organized store environment for inviting shopping experience for customers.
Customer Service Representative
Inter Ocean Lubricants (Pvt) Ltd.
10.2020 - 05.2021
- Handled customer inquiries and suggestions courteously and professionally
- Provided primary customer support to internal and external customers
- Maintained customer satisfaction with forward-thinking strategies focused on addressing customer needs and resolving concerns
- Leveraged sales expertise to promote products and capitalized on upsell opportunities
- Collaborated with staff members to enhance customer service experience and exceed team goals through effective client satisfaction rates.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Pharmacology and Environmental Science
Monash University
Melbourne, VIC01.2024
Diploma of Science -
Monash College
Melbourne, VIC11.2021
CEFR Level B2.2, Graded Examination in Spoken English -
Trinity Collage London
CMB Skills Plus 4- English Language Course -
British Council
GCE Advanced Level Examination -
Musaeus College, Sri-Lanka
GCE Ordinary Level Examination -
Musaeus College, Sri-Lanka
Skills
- Communication: Enhanced through customer interactions as Senior Sales Assistant and student engagement during volunteer activities at Monash University Student Association
- Time Management: Cultivated by successfully balancing work and academic commitments
- Team Collaboration: Nurtured by collaborating with colleagues in retail and participating in student associations events (Campus tour guiding, graduation volunteering, event organising and setting up)
- Adaptability: Showcased by handling fast-paced customer service situations and pursuing a multidisciplinary degree as an international student
- Problem Solving: Through resolving inquiries and proposing solutions as Customer Service Representative and Senior Sales Assistant
- Research: Developed through academic studies in Pharmacology and Environmental Science
- Computer Skills: Proficiency gained in documentation, analysis, and research through academic coursework, using Microsoft Office tools, email, Internet, and analytical software
- Organisation: Applying and documenting specific tasks associated with store opening and closures, cash handling in a fast-paced retail environment
- Attention to Detail: Applied in precise cash handling and accurate customer service
- Leadership: Demonstrated by providing leadership to the science society fund-raising and other events
- Critical Thinking: Resolving customer complaints, managing difficult customers to find solutions to their concerns, and finding upsell opportunities
- Networking and Interpersonal Skills: Strengthened through engaging with diverse peers and participating in on-campus cultural and community events
Volunteer Experience
- Monash University Student Association, Volunteering, 2022, present, Active participant, contributed to campus events, engaged students, and supported community service projects. Developed leadership skills, expanded network, and enhanced university experience through meaningful contributions.
- School Junior Science Society, Assistant President, 2016, Enriched students' scientific experiences by fostering an intellectually stimulating environment. Coordinated events, facilitated student engagement, and contributed to advancing the society's mission.
- School Junior Science Society, President, 2017, Led strategic planning, orchestrated science events, nurtured student interest, and advocated for science education. Mentored members, managed resources, demonstrated crisis management, and maintained public relations.
- School Senior Science Society, Treasurer, 2019, Managed financial health, responsible budgeting, and collaborative decision-making. Ensured effective resource utilization, fostering financial stability and amplifying the impact of initiatives.
- School Wildlife Conservation Society, President, 2019, Spearheaded environmental awareness and wildlife conservation initiatives. Organized workshops, field trips, and events collaborated with local organizations, facilitated community outreach, and nurtured environmental responsibility.
Leadership Experiences
- School Primary Prefect (2011)
- School Junior Prefect (2014)
Languages
English (Fluent)
Sinhalese (Native)
References
References can be provided upon request.
Timeline
Intern
Monash Sustainability Development Institute
11.2023 - 02.2024
Casual Retail Sales Assistant
Seed Heritage
10.2023 - Current
Senior Sales Assistant
Bakers Delight
03.2022 - Current
Customer Service Representative
Inter Ocean Lubricants (Pvt) Ltd.
10.2020 - 05.2021
Bachelor of Science - Pharmacology and Environmental Science
Monash University
Diploma of Science -
Monash College
CEFR Level B2.2, Graded Examination in Spoken English -
Trinity Collage London
CMB Skills Plus 4- English Language Course -
British Council
GCE Advanced Level Examination -
Musaeus College, Sri-Lanka
GCE Ordinary Level Examination -
Musaeus College, Sri-Lanka
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