NYU Abu Dhabi - showUcare stories
Rasha Shraim:
‘‘Why do I volunteer? The answer seems too obvious. However, I don't have an eloquent response. I volunteer because, for me, it's simply a must. I volunteer simply because I care and I feel indebted. We take and take and most often forget the part where we have to give back. This is my way of saying thank you. At the thrift store, many low-income people come in to pick out some tired clothes and things that even at insignificant costs, many cannot afford. The little that I give to keep the store functioning is a small part of my university's thank you to our Abu Dhabi community.’’
Nicole Lopez del Carril:
‘‘I volunteer because I have been gifted an amazing education and opportunities, and I believe strongly in using the tools and resources I am fortunate to have to better the lives of those I come in contact with. I believe if we all dedicated our lives to changing a little of the world around us for the better, we would reveal a wonderful and beautiful world for everyone.’’
Geo Kamus:
‘‘Volunteering in migrant worker communities has touched a raw nerve within me. In college, it's easy, almost expected, to be consumed by academics, extracurriculars, and other social norms. Though oftentimes stressful, they can be managed and solved in a relatively straightforward way. Outside this bubble, however, very different and very real challenges exist. Being with these people remind me that the world faces deeply complex issues that affects everyone, especially the marginalized communities I choose to serve. Engaging with them reminds me of these issues, and the responsibility I share in solving them.’’
Gaby Garcia:
‘‘I volunteer because my cause is important to me. Special education is important because with proper guidance, children with special needs have the opportunity to achieve higher levels of self-sufficiency and success in the future. Volunteering at the Ability Center for Special Needs has been one of the most rewarding experiences, because the students I have worked with inspire me and have shown me, through their dedication and achievements, how much progress can be made. I will continue to volunteer because I believe that I can make a change.’’
Juliana Bello:
‘‘My participation in the Somali Centre's English program has been one of the most education parts of my NYUAD experience. I would recommend involvement with the centre to anyone interested in learning about curriculum development and, surprisingly, about relating to other people. It is easy to approach volunteering with a very prepared and calculated approach, e.g. asking the question "How can I best get to these people?" However, the unpredictable nature of the work at Somali Centre teaches you that the most effective way to volunteer is through creating an atmosphere of equality. There's no need to trick anyone into learning--a solid curriculum and a fluid, sincere delivery that doesn't set you above your students is effective enough.’’
