Service Learning Essay -- Personal Reflection

I signed up to volunteer at a local nursing home. Because my father works there, I have been there many times before. However, volunteering there was very new to me. I had to understand the circumstances in which people were in and how interact with residents respectfully and compassionately which provided opportunities for personal growth by practicing integrity, justice and good stewardship. Though I was a bit hesitant, my experience has been very positive. Just being a volunteer without any related experience or skills, I was unqualified to help and many ways. The few menial tasks that I was able to do seemed to be met with much enthusiasm and appreciation. Simply helping someone to their seat bringing them a cup of tea or making conversation was enough make a smile. My goal was to help change everyone’s day for the better in what little ways I can and I think my experience reflects my success. The residents seem to be treated fairly and justly; there is no particular thing I would change if I were in charge of that home. However, it does lead me to think about those vulnerable individuals that aren’t getting the assistance they deserve. From this experience, I can clearly see the need the elderly have, and I can fathom the very real possibility of individuals whose families are unknowing, unwilling or unable to provide the necessary assistance the need. I learned quite a bit at my orientation. St. Mary’s Home opened in 1936 because of an apparent lack of Catholic homes for the aged. At the beginning, the Sisters did almost all the work as well as provide care. Throughout the years, additions were made to the building and the Sisters began hiring employees to relieve some of their duties such as laundry, ... ...force those teaching in class. Class lessons are very good in giving you a lot of information and putting it into context. Experiencing and trying to apply those teachings in real life is what really makes it stick. The combination of class and service learning provided a solid foundation on which to be a morally responsible leader. During class, all sorts of ideas are brought up and discussed as a group and critically analyzing from different perspectives and relating it to other ideas. This enables the students rectify their own beliefs and morals in constructive ways. From these developments, we begin to see how it fits in the world and try to apply ourselves and gain wisdom. Gaining knowledge, experience and wisdom, it becomes our understanding to find good in any aspect of our lives and work towards advancing that good in a way that benefits all.