Each summer since 2012 I have volunteered across the globe within organizations relevant to my desired career. This volunteer work has ultimately enriched my career-related education by allowing me to practically apply my acquired skills. Through this volunteer work and many connections, I have also been able to interview multiple professionals within the international adoption industry, a process crucial to professional development that has allowed an extra edge in my knowledge of the field and the prerequisites required to obtaining the position. Further information on the interviews are available on the Educational Enhancement- Interviews subpage.
Educational Enhancement
Volunteer Work
Shanghai Healing Home
In July of 2013, I had the opportunity to travel independently to the People's Republic of China to volunteer at the Shanghai Healing Home, an orphanage located in Pudong, Shanghai. The Shanghai Healing Home assists local Chinese Children's Welfare Institutes by providing pre- and post-surgical care to abandoned babies suffering from surgically correctable medical deformities. I acted as a volunteer orphan caretaker and accumulated 26 hours of on-site service. I also acted as an international liaison for the orphanage by spreading awareness through writing, fundraising, and social media. My experience at the Shanghai Healing Home allowed me develop a personal connection and view of the rising global needs and a passion for orphans and children around the globe. My experience has also shown me the importance of the executive directing role I am striving for and has given me necessary knowledge of international adoption processes and foreign orphanage policies and laws. Please visit shanghaihealinghome.com for more information.
Girls Inc. "About Girls Inc." Girls Inc. Girls Incorporated, 2013. Web. 04 Dec. 2013.
Learning Beyond Academy
While on my independently-funded trip to Shanghai in July of 2013, I also volunteered at the Learning Beyond Academy, a nonprofit Kindergarten through Middle School focused on student learning, the teaching of the English language, whole child education and character development. I acted as a volunteer assistant teacher and group leader. I assisted in the teaching of English, worldly culture, and song and accumulated 29 hours of service. My experience at the Learning Beyond Academy gave me hands-on experience in communication and interaction with other cultures and people who speak different languages while reinforcing my child-care skills. Please visit learningbeyondacademy.com for more information.
Girls Incorporated
In July through August of 2012, I volunteered at Girls Incorporated (Girls Inc.) of the Greater Santa Barbara Area in Goleta, California. Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through life-changing programs and experiences that help girls navigate gender, economic, and social barriers. At the Goleta location, I donated 96 hours of service as an assistant teacher and led 20 girls daily throughout the course of the summer program. My experience at Girls Incorporated began the development of my passion for children around the world and helped foster my leadership skills. Please visit www.girlsinc.org for more information.