
Volunteer
Lowell High School
Class of 2021
If I became invisible for 10 minutes right now, I would run to the beach alone at night and go swimming. I would not have to worry about any dangers in the ocean, and it would be a once in a lifetime experience. The water would be freezing cold though, so I would not last more than 10 minutes.
If I could change one thing in the world, it would be to provide clean water and stable food supply to those in need. Clean drinking water and food are essential to life, yet millions around the world lack them and face numerous health consequences as a result. Fortunately, there have been new technologies and policies created for this purpose, but the problem has not been solved. If I had the power, I would create a comprehensive change to ensure that every individual has access to the bare necessities to survive.
My ideal way to spend the weekend (not during quarantine) would be to go on a staycation with my best friends. This would include getting brunch, going swimming, practicing self-care, and enjoying a relaxing weekend away from schoolwork and daunting college applications. I can always count on making lasting memories whenever I am with my friends, so spending time together during our senior year would be my idea of a perfect weekend.
I would definitely choose eggs due to their versatility. Eggs can be enjoyed in many forms, such as scrambled, soft boiled and as an omelet. They are high in protein and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lastly, you do not need professional culinary skills to cook an egg, and they typically only need a few minutes to cook, which is perfect because I am impatient when hungry.
The most valuable lesson that I have learned is that everything happens for a reason. This lesson has helped me cherish the good moments in life and appreciate the opportunities that I have. It has also helped me turn difficult times into learning experiences and opportunities for growth.
I would work as a neuroscientist researching neurological diseases such as strokes and Alzheimer’s disease. The brain is fundamental to our everyday life, yet is one of the organs that we know the least about. I hope to study both preventative measures and treatment possibilities for individuals with neurological diseases.
While waking up before dawn is always a struggle, the idea of giving back to my community while spending time with my friends and peers motivates me to volunteer for Charity Runs. From guiding and cheering on runners to distributing post-race snacks, the gratitude that I have experienced as a volunteer continues to motivate me.
I looked forward to the Hot Chocolate Run the most because serving hot chocolate on a cold winter day reminded me of the holidays and winter break, which is my favorite time of the year. I volunteered with my friends and we watched the sunrise from the volunteer tent, surrounded by vats of melted chocolate. While it was after Christmas, I still felt the holiday cheer while handing out chocolate and marshmallows to the runners, and the event lived up to my prior expectations. I had a fun time volunteering with my friends and talking with the runners, and I felt like it was a good way to start the New Year.
From meeting and building relationships with new friends to interacting with event participants, I have made many positive memories as a volunteer for HIM. I enjoy the freedom that HIM gives you to volunteer with your friends, as it encourages friends to invite each other to volunteer. While waking up before the sun rises can be difficult, the goal of fundraising for charity organizations, the cheerful environment, and the other volunteers make the entire experience worthwhile and fulfilling.
HIM has impacted my life drastically, as I have made many lasting memories with my friends at volunteering events. Furthermore, because HIM connects students from many different schools, I believe that it has fostered a sense of unity and purpose between students in the Bay Area. Seeing the dedication of the coordinators and volunteers to produce a fun event for participants has deepened my appreciation for the community and the various charity organizations that host events in our city. I am thankful for the opportunity that HIM has provided me to give back to the community with my friends and peers in the Bay Area.