Lilia Dominguez Zhakava

Trillingual

Yalow Scholar aspiring to become a physician, driven by my passion for healthcare, science, and advancing equity in medicine. With a multicultural background and ongoing community volunteer work, I am committed to serving diverse patients with empathy, leadership, and purpose as I continue my path toward the medical field.

Contact

(347)-874-4265 // [email protected]

Education

  • Hunter College, City University of New York                             Expected Graduation: June 2029
  • Expected Major: Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology and in Spanish – Translation and Interpretation
  • HONORS AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Yalow Scholars Program (2025-Present) and New York State Academic Scholar Recipient (2025)

Leadership and Community Service

Heart To Heart Volunteer, Weill Cornell                   November 2025 – Present 
Patient Navigator

-Guided the attendees through the event, answering questions, and ensuring they received appropriate services and support  
-Provided live translation in Russian and Spanish for participants with limited English Proficiency, helping them effectively communicate with staff and access resources

Social Media Manager for LMSA Club, Hunter College                   October 2025 – Present 
Manager

-Designed and curated digital content that aligned with organizational values and strengthened community engagement across multiple platforms 
-Utilized my Spanish–English bilingual communication skills to translate messaging and ensure that information was accessible, inclusive, and representative of diverse linguistic audiences
-Establish a welcoming classroom environment that encourages student participation and collaboration 
-Developed visual narratives and promotional posts that highlighted events, cultural education, and student involvement, emphasizing empowerment and connection within the school community

St. Joseph and St. Mary Immaculate, Staten Island, NY                 September 2023 – Present 
Catechist

-Lead and mentor 18 students through faith formation lessons and interactive learning activities that build moral understanding and community values.
-Establish a welcoming classroom environment that encourages student participation and collaboration  
-Apply effective behavior management strategies to promote positive conduct 
-Collaborate with fellow staff members to ensure the overall success of the program

President and Founder of Crochet Club at New Dorp High School   September 2023 – May 2025
President

-Design and lead age-appropriate crochet lesson plans tailored for high school participants
-Provide individualized guidance and mentorship to students to help them achieve their crochet project dreams
-Cultivate an inclusive and supportive classroom environment that encourages creativity and skill development 

Work Experience

  • South Fin Grill, Staten Island, NY                                                                       May 2025 – September 2025
    • Hostess  
  • -Seat guests at assigned tables and ensure smooth table rotation for efficient service 
    • -Clean and prepare tables to maintain a welcoming and sanitary dining environment 
      -Translate between Spanish, Russian, and English to support clear communication with guests
      -Greet guests at door with a friendly demeanor and create a positive first impression
  • La Cantina Mexican, Staten Island NY                                                     June  2024 – January 2025 
    Waitress

    -Take food and beverage orders in both English and Spanish 
    -Ensure a memorable dining experience by anticipating guest needs and delivering exemplary hospitality
    -Maintain a clean and organized dining area by bussing tables and replenishing supplies
  • 1199 Youth Mentoring Program at Richmond University Medical Center           Summer 2024
     Intern at Labor and Delivery Unit
  • -Provide personal care to ensure comfort and well-being
    -Facilitate English-Spanish translation to support effective communication between patients and healthcare staff
    -Clean and prepare stretchers to maintain a safe and sanitary environment 
    -Collect and record patient information accurately for medical staff review

Skills

Languages: Oral Proficiency in Spanish and Russian  

Computer Programs: Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Academic Interests

Perusing a field in medicine, with a minor in Spanish. Aiming to use language skills to translate, support patients, and ensure proper care. I am focused on developing a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and medical sciences to prepare for a future in medicine. I am particularly interested in furthering my knowledge in a popular language, Spanish, to promote health equity that can improve patient outcomes in underserved communities.