“As I walked into Cedars-Sinai Hospital, I didn’t know what to expect. What if I didn’t like volunteering there? But since I had already filled out my application, gone to my interview, and still had to fulfill my 50 community service hours for school, I had to go along with it. So there I was, going on the elevator to take my picture for my volunteer badge in my $20 blue tunic and white pants. After my picture was taken, I was on my own. On my first day, my mind almost went blank as to where my section was. Luckily, my memory came back, so I wasn’t completely lost.
My first assignment was the Ambulatory Pediatric clinic, which is where the kids go for basic treatment. When I first entered the pediatric play room I never imagined that such a small place could give me such a big headache. There were little kids crying and running, sick babies crying, and playful children who never got enough of the toys. Actually the large two-story, six-room doll house, two fire trucks, numerous puzzles, and two large video games were not enough toys for them. As the children’s energy increased, mine began to decrease. Although there were times when there were very few kids in the play room, there were also times when the amount of kids tripled. Sometimes it was boring, but other times I played with the kids, and actually enjoyed it.
A smile is my reward
It felt good to know that I could comfort a child before getting a shot or put a smile on their faces before getting one. It is a good feeling to know that you are helping somebody whether the patient recognizes it or not.
In order to be a volunteer at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, you must fill out a three-page application. A volunteer coordinator will call you for an interview. She will explain the rules and regulations. There are two mandatory orientation sessions that discuss patient care, confidentiality, and nutrition and hospitality. There are a variety of departments to volunteer in, and if you call early, you can choose which unit you want to volunteer in.
While volunteering, I made a lot of new friends and met a lot of great people. I learned how the real world operates in a hospital setting. I highly recommend this program for teens who want to go into the medical field, but you don’t have to be interested in becoming a doctor to participate.
For more information, call the Department of Volunteer Services at (310) 855-5231.”