Civic Engagement in the Health Professions

Jennifer Lawson volunteered at New Milson Hospital, where she had the chance to work with patients and experience the work environment of a medical facility. Here’s what she had to say about her experience at the hospital:

 “By being in the hospital setting with patients of all ages and from all walks of life, I not only got to work with them but witness how others interact with them. The biggest character trait I desire after this experience is patience. Nurses deal with an immense amount of complaining, requests, and sheer difficulty – but never once did I see any of them ever compromise their care based on personal opinions and preferences in reference to the patients. I understand that civic engagement requires a tolerance for all people in the community regardless of personal feelings. In the future I will continue to look for opportunities that influence a large diversity of people to widen my understanding of community.”