I am a volunteer in the Organ Transplant Unit at UI Hospitals and Clinics. My main reason for volunteering would be my desire to work with people and gain experience in a hospital setting because I am a pre-nursing student at the University of Iowa. The Organ Transplant Unit has been very beneficial in that it provides me with a background in what it takes to be a health care provider. I have been able to work with many wonderful people, and all are willing to help me out when needed and find tasks for me to do. This is my first time volunteering at the hospital, but I worked at a nursing home facility in my hometown as a CNA. My most rewarding experiences as a volunteer have been meeting new people and any patient contact that I can attain. Thank you!

      — Kari Winder

I volunteer because I am from a small community and I have always been an active volunteer in my community. It makes me feel like I am helping others and like I am involved with something. I have volunteered on the pediatrics outpatient unit and I am currently volunteering in general pediatrics. I think the best thing about what I do is helping to make the children's visit to the hospital more enjoyable. I can't say I have had one rewarding experience in particular, but I find the experience as a whole rewarding. I think volunteering helps with communication skills, which is a valuable skill in life.

      — Cassidi Howar

I am a freshmen majoring in nursing. I decided I wanted to volunteer this semester at UI Hospitals and Clinics because it would give me great experience! I am currently volunteering in the pediatric outpatient unit and I really enjoy it! I see many kids and families in and out from their visits. Next year I hope to be able to volunteer in the Pediatric In-Patient Unit as well. I love kids so I love being able to visit with them and their families. I also play with them to calm them. It is rewarding for me to talk with the kids and help them be more relaxed while waiting for the doctor. It has its sad moments too, but for the most part I enjoy volunteering at UI Hospitals and Clinics!

      — Kami Roecker

I volunteer in the burn unit. So far, I have really enjoyed it, the experience is very rewarding. The reason why I volunteered is simply because I wanted to. I enjoy being in a hospital atmosphere, because of my interest in the medical field, and I also am eager to lend a helping hand. I really think this was a great opportunity for me!

      — Nicole Torchia

I am a volunteer in the cardiology ward, and I truly love every moment I spend there. Last year I had a heart procedure done that many thought might end my athletic career at The University of Iowa. However, I was surrounded with gifted doctors and remarkable nurses, all whom helped me recover quickly. Their patience and dedication was what allowed me to represent the University at Big Ten's less than a week later.

I volunteer for no simpler reason than to see a patient smile, listen to their many detailed stories, or just make them as comfortable as can be. Some patients do not have many visitors, and if I can be the one who can take their mind off their pain and discomfort, what more could one ask for?!?

I feel I was blessed, and that I owe something to the ward and to the people who helped me. Every week I learn valuable lessons from new patients. Their strength and determination make everyday disagreements seem minuscule. I love being a volunteer, and will continue to be one for years to come.

      — With Love, Michelle Bagi

I volunteer because it makes me feel good. It's a very rewarding experience and you get to meet so many people. I like working with children. I'm having the best time tutoring little kids and big kids. It's a great time. I love to just chat with them. My most rewarding experiences are when the kids open up to me. They sometimes come into the center very quiet and timid but after awhile they warm up and I can get to know them better.

      — Rachel Loret De Mola