riverboycd@gmail.com March 4, 2024 Dear Hiring Manager, I was intrigued and motivated upon reading about this position and feel that this would be an incredible opportunity. I would like to introduce myself and give a brief description to better portray my skills and the potential value I could add to the team and company. I will obtain a degree in Economics and Business from Hampden-Sydney College upon graduation in May of 2024. The well-rounded education and applicational practices provided by a small liberal arts college has equipped me with an exceptional foundation of knowledge and skills across industries. I have continuously challenged myself in and out of the classroom as an honors student, being a member of various clubs and organizations, as well as studying abroad at Oxford during the summer of 2023. Being born and raised in Smithfield, I have a deep love and passion for my community. This position is exceptionally intriguing to me because of its importance within the community and I feel that my education paired with my heavy community involvement would bring added value to the team. Since 2020, I have worked at my family's business, "Darden's Country Store". I have played a large part in the curing, cooking, and deboning process, rapidly expanding the business while also initiating more efficient and productive operation techniques. I am extremely thankful for the experience I have gained from the ham business, and I am excited to take on my next adventure. I am extremely quick to learn and resourceful in approaches to problem solving and decision making. I am charismatic, highly motivated, and always interested in new and diverse experiences. I would greatly appreciate your review of my enclosed resume and outlined credentials. I believe that I can be a valuable addition to your company and your business goals. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Thomas Lewis Darden III "Chip" riverboycd@gmail.com 757-620-7005 Smithfield, VA 23430 Skills & Coursework Decision Making Continuous Learning • Initiative-Driven • Interpersonal and Communication Skills • Team Building and Motivation • Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing R Studio within classroom settings to analyze economic forecasting data [Introduction to R and RStudio, Managerial Decision Making, Money and Banking, Corporate Finance, Entrepreneurial Thinking] Thomas Lewis Darden III "Chip" • • Education Expected in 05/2024 Bachelor of Arts: Economics and Business Hampden-Sydney College Hampden Sydney, VA • • • • 3.4 GPA Majoring in Economics and Business Honors Student Dean's List for fall 2020, spring 2021, fall 2021, fall 2022, and fall 2023 08/2023 St. Annes College At Oxford University Oxford, England • • • Six week study abroad session with the Virginia Program at Oxford Weekly tutorials and lectures in European history, literature, and economics Dean's List 05/2020 Isle of Wight Academy Smithfield, VA • • • • . Student Body President Chamber of Commerce Student Leadership Program National Honor Society GPA: 3.95 Summary Strong, independent and collaborative leader with a hands on, strategic approach to problem solving and decision making. Driven by a deep passion for continual learning, which provokes engagement in new and diverse experiences. Committed to hard work and authenticity, I approach every opportunity with dedication and a true sense of self. Experience Darden's Country Store - Darden's Store Ham Coordinator Smithfield, VA 01/2019 - Current • • • • Labor Coordinator for staffing, scheduling and role clarification Project Manager for ham production including curing, cooking, and deboning processes Tour guide for on sight smokehouse, assisting in marketing and sales with a charismatic approach toward local history and ham production Various other duties including miscellaneous chores required Jason Edwards - Edwards Lawn Service LLC Smithfield, Virginia 05/2021 - 08/2022 • • General responsibilities with specialization in bricklaying and custom sidewalks/patios Engaged in handling customer service and satisfaction Buzz Mintz - Crab Boat 2nd Mate Smithfield, Virginia 05/2019 - 08/2019 • • • Responsible for pulling crab pots, rebaiting and grading crab classifications for final sale Responsible for general maintenance, cleaning and prepping of boat and supplies 5 a.m. start 6 days a week Scott Horne - Taste of Smithfield 05/2018 - 08/2018 • Dishwasher and Prep Cook Extracurricular Activities College: Member of Society of 1791, Member of the History Club, Member of Spanish Club, Member of Pittmasters Club, Member of Pi Kappa Alpha International Fraternity (served as Treasurer, Risk Manager, and Vice President of New Member Development) High School: Varsity Football Captain (2019 First Team All-State OL), Forensics, Key Club, Roc Solid Foundation
