Here’s To New Experiences

After graduating from college in May 2024 and working for a year, I wanted to dedicate a year of my life to service. Since I was planning to attend graduate school, I decided that this was the best time, because if not now, then when? I started looking through the Catholic Volunteer Network and found FrancisCorps. I was drawn to their emphasis on formation, and the joy that radiated from previous volunteers while following them on instagram.

Through working in a previous healthcare position, I saw the burnout that employees experience from years of healthcare. I see how important it is to have your faith and your values at the forefront of your work. Gaining this formation through the next year is what I saw as essential for me, not only as a future healthcare worker but also as a person.

The seven-month build-up after saying “yes” was exciting. The program I had told so many friends and family about was actually becoming a reality. A new city, new people, and new work is an adventure I am so happy I get to be a part of. As challenging as this transition can be at times, it is so rewarding getting to experience this newness.

My first few weeks of service have been so welcoming. The staff at Francis House is full of joy, and they all welcomed me with open arms. Everyone in the office creates an amazing environment that is warm and peaceful. At the Poverello Health Clinic, I have been able to converse with so many intelligent individuals, people who care about the community, and I have had the chance to learn so much.

As the year continues on I am stoked to get a chance to experience all this newness – to get to know Karlie and Amanda more, learn my way around Syracuse, and develop amazing relationships at my service sites.

Categories: General

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