Graduation granted time; a leisure previously scarce during my studies. Priorities are revealed in how our time is spent. I used my time in preparation for the MCAT and medical school applications. Also sought, were opportunities to serve in the local community. Volunteering has been a pursuit from a young age, and the gap following graduation provided the time to volunteer much more than was able during my studies.
I began tutoring elementary aged children, in reading and math skills, at the public library. I coached a girl’s youth volleyball team in my community recreation league. I coordinated a group of volunteers in Anatomy Academy, an organization focused upon teaching anatomy and nutrition in schools throughout Utah. Groups I led were in special education classes; one with Autism and another with Down Syndrome. Volunteer opportunities, such as the ones aforementioned, have brought great joy and have had a significant impact on my decision to seek a career in medicine.
A special place is reserved in my heart for children with special needs. Genuine love is felt each time I interact with them, and I hope to find more opportunities to serve such amazing children throughout my medical career.
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This home provides a refuge for abused children, or for children whose parents were unable to provide adequate care. Excited children greeted our group and were immediately received with open arms. Each morning, I helped with the construction of a new garage designated for storage and machinery. Welding, putting up sheet metal, and assembling doors became routine after the first few hours. In the afternoon, I helped with the children’s activities and became inspired by the love they showed us. Smiles and laughs were contagious and made leaving the campus hard. The week-long mission came and went quickly, but left memories that will last a