Студентка Вирджинского политеха призывает к гражданскому участию ради улучшения здравоохранения и общества

Virginia Tech is a civic-minded community. Evidence of these systems is shown through thoughtful planning of the downtown area to the little details like flowers lining streets, the food pantries and local thrift stores. It’s difficult to not get involved in our community in some way. Greek life supports local and national causes, programs like the Engagement Center for Creative Aging exist around campus and Virginia Tech’s Big Event is hosted each year. Moreover, our school’s motto is Ut Prosim, which means “That I may serve.” Moving to college from home is an adjustment no matter where home may be. New systems, new friends and a new place to call home can be frightening and intimidating. Getting involved in clubs is important, but something overlooked is getting involved in civic-minded activities. Oftentimes we push individuals in the direction of internships, sports or clubs, but what about clubs that lift our community up? These communities often contain like-minded people who care about others. During a shift like transitioning from high school to college, finding a sense of belonging can and will happen by interacting with locals and community members. Over the summer, I volunteered at my local Planned Parenthood and met many people from different walks of life. I spent time talking to fellow volunteers and learned about what led folks to volunteer at Planned Parenthood. Many women offered advice and connections to other civic organizations, and I made friends with some of the younger women who were closer to my age. These experiences affirmed my desire to spend time volunteering there. I looked forward to being there as I became a part of the community. One of the young women I became friends with shared her experiences of applying to medical school. I never saw myself attending a Pig Roast in celebration of the World Cup, but another one of the women I volunteered with invited me. Protesting happened at my local Planned Parenthood twice a week by the same folks, and unfortunately, they would often antagonize women who walked in, specifically young women. Seeing a young woman have to deal with harassment to simply access healthcare, while men walked in without being bothered, made me angry, especially considering how slow women’s healthcare has progressed. I blocked the protestors and escorted women in; I translated for Spanish-speakers and made sure people were as comfortable as possible. Most importantly, the main reason I enjoyed my time volunteering was the smile of relief I was able to give people who walked into the clinic. The Big Event and local pantry volunteers must understand what I mean when I say that seeing someone soften, smile and put their guard down so you can help is what must make the world a better place. At a university that is known for engineering, business and natural resources, we are in a powerful position. It’s important to recognize the power we hold with the knowledge that we have. We must consider the implications of the things we have the power to create, the deals we can make and the resources we can use. My experiences affirmed my desire to work in healthcare. As a biomedical engineering student, it is also important that I continue to remember that the devices I create are to be worn by others and must be made with care. My experiences are more than just opportunities; they’re reminders of the reason I’m pursuing the path that I am, and that is to improve quality of life and care. Instead of being on one side of the healthcare system, I value participating in different roles. Volunteering is a way to see systems from the outside. Down the line, I hope to gain experience working inside the clinic. In the future, I hope to use my engineering skills as a doctor. When college becomes difficult and the going gets tough, having support systems and activities that uplift you are important. Getting involved and becoming civic-minded is extremely important, and a great way to feel like part of the community. Knowing who your neighbors are, learning important skills and ultimately knowing who in your community needs help will build a better Blacksburg and a better Virginia Tech community.