How Volunteering Has Changed My Life. by David

How Volunteering Has Changed My Life. by David - May 2018 Scholarship Essay

As a typical and sometimes self-centered college student, I have lived most of my teen and young adult life believing the world centers around me and my needs. My world changed when I began volunteering. What started out as something I had to do to pass a class became something I am now passionate about and plan to continue for the remainder of my life. I believe that all high school and college students should be required to volunteer for at least one semester.
Volunteering encourages young people to think of others and become compassionate young adults. It is the perfect way to discover something you may be really good at as you develop a new skill. Volunteering brings together a diverse range of people from all walks of life. It has help me to gain perspective on life as there is no better way to understand the values of helping people in need.
I have gained a newfound respect for the young men and women who are serving our country through my experience with Give 2 The Troops. While preparing care packages for our troops and viewing the photos of our soldiers serving overseas, I realized how much they endure for our freedom, and how much the little things that we may take for granted here can mean to them.
Another great experience that changed my perspective on life was working in the cardiac intensive care unit of our local hospital. Because I don’t have a medical background or special training, all I can offer patients is a smile and someone to talk with while they wait. And yet, this seems to be enough for so many of the families I encountered. Having watched many family members lose a loved one, I have come to realize how precious my life is and how each day is truly a gift.
In conclusion, I got out of my world and stepped into the world of others. And I don’t plan for these to be my only volunteer experiences. I will continue to work through different organizations in many areas. The short amount of time I give pales in comparison to what I have gained from these experiences. I think all students should gain a better understanding of the world around them if they are required to volunteer for just a semester. The world will be a much better place for it, and I feel sure that many will decide, as I did, to continue with the effort!