Marcos
Server
I began working at Marco’s Pizza during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where I quickly adapted to fast-changing safety protocols and customer needs. In this high-paced environment, I honed my communication and problem-solving skills while providing exceptional service both in-person and over the phone. I was also responsible for managing the cash register, training and mentoring new employees, and resolving customer complaints with professionalism and efficiency.
Teds Montana Grill
Hostess & Server Assistant
Known for its classic American fare and exceptional service, Ted’s Montana Grill is a fine dining restaurant known for its classic American fare and exceptional service. I honed my professionalism and communication skills in a high-end hospitality setting. As a hostess, I served as both the first and last impression for guests, ensuring every person who walked through the door felt genuinely welcomed and well cared for. I enhanced the dining experience by professionally greeting and seating guests, managing reservations and waitlists with efficiency, and addressing guest inquiries with poise and clarity.
As a server assistant, I played a key support role in maintaining smooth service flow—clearing and resetting tables quickly, assisting with food delivery, and ensuring guest needs were met promptly. This role strengthened my teamwork, attention to detail, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
Olive Cafe
Barista
Located steps from the ocean, Olive Cafe is a beloved brunch destination in Mission Beach, known for attracting both locals and travelers with its cozy atmosphere and vibrant menu. As a barista and front-of-house team member, I thrived in this high-energy, fast-paced environment, greeting guests with warmth, taking and preparing orders efficiently, and maintaining a welcoming and organized front counter.
I learned the importance of customer connection in a high-volume setting, where creating a positive experience made all the difference. Under the guidance of a great mentor, I sharpened my skills in hospitality, multitasking, and time management, while also learning how to stay calm and collected during peak hours.
In addition to its local acclaim, Olive Cafe was recognized with the Legacy Business Award by the Mission Beach Chamber of Commerce. Its owner also presented at the 2024 Gold Medallion Awards, highlighting the cafe’s impact on the community—an environment I was proud to be part of.
LOCATION
Colorado Springs, CO
San Diego, CA
WHEN
2020-2025
POSITION
Hostess, Barista, Server
Hospitality: Working in the restaurant industry taught me the true meaning of hospitality—creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for every guest. From greeting customers with a smile to anticipating their needs, I learned how small gestures can create lasting positive impressions and build customer loyalty.
Customer Service: Every shift was an opportunity to sharpen my customer service skills. Whether handling dine-in guests or phone orders, I learned how to listen actively, respond quickly to concerns, and turn challenges into positive experiences, even in high-pressure situations.
Communication: Clear, respectful, and timely communication was essential—whether relaying orders to the kitchen, updating customers on wait times, or coordinating with teammates. I developed the ability to communicate calmly and efficiently, helping operations run smoothly during busy hours.
Multitasking: The fast-paced restaurant environment demanded the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities at once—managing tables, answering phones, handling payments, and resolving issues, all while maintaining professionalism and a positive attitude. This experience made me quick on my feet and highly organized under pressure.