My major service project was carried out in the James Cancer Hospital Emergency Department from August 2016-May 2017. My role is very flexible and varies every shift. Most of the time I escorted family members to loved ones in the E.D., assisted patient representatives with varying responsibilities to improve customer service, made coffee, fetched warm blankets, and completed miscellaneous tasks as directed by Patient Representatives. I perform these duties every week for 2 hours per week. I have had the privilege of being a James Cancer Hospital volunteer for two years now and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. The connections I have made at the James are wonderful! Everyone in the volunteer office and the Patient Representatives I work with are kind, encouraging, supportive people I look forward to spending time with. I have come to really enjoy the hospital atmosphere and can easily see myself working in a hospital for a living. Additionally, I have developed great people skills while working to comfort families and patients in the waiting rooms. There have been times where families have gotten frustrated and have tried to argue or yell at me, but it has made me a stronger, more readily equipped volunteer because of these experiences. I have also had touching encounters with patients and families, who have thanked me for taking the time to assist or simply talk with them. Hearing someone stop and say, “Thank you for all you do here, it really makes a difference” fills me up inside. I am blessed to be a part of the James volunteer community, and I cannot wait for next semester!

1. EAT. I was finally able to visit the North Market in Downtown Columbus recently where one can find unique and delicious food from all over the world. Although it was difficult to choose from getting thick Belgian waffles or spicy Mexican food, I chose to try authentic vietnamese pho – a type of noodle soup. It was full of fresh herbs and delicate rice noodles along with my choice of protein. It was fabulous and I plan to get a recipe and try to make it over the summer.
2.  DO. My friends and I went ice skating in downtown Columbus at the NHS All-Star Ice Park on a day when it wasn’t super chilly but still great skating weather. My friend Nicole and I (pictured below) discovered that we are not cut out to be professional figure skaters (to put it mildly). On the other hand, my friends Claire and Aly skated three times around the rink in the time it took Nicole and I to make one loop! They have true talent and coordination. I am glad we got to see this part of Columbus because there were many families out, which is a nice change from campus.
3. GO.  Lastly, we went to the North Market in downtown Columbus where we experienced cuisines from all over the world. The North Market is a very special place because even in the colder months it provides a warm place to have fun with friends and do one of my favorite things – eat! Another first time experience I had while there was trying french macarons. All of my friends and I instantly fell in love with this sweet, unique dessert. Every time we return, we buy a few (at least!). 

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