My volunteer work at McGill is a continuous exchange of giving and, in doing so, receiving. In these exchanges, I encounter diverse communities in unlikely, and often isolated settings. The renewed sense of the vast perspectives to learn from gives me a deep appreciation for life. I became involved with volunteering and extracurriculars to build connections and explore my burgeoning interests. I continue to volunteer as resources are short, but the demand is high for equitable access to healthcare and services.
Building and directing the dietetics chapter at Collaboration Interprofessionnelle Montréalaise Étudiante has been rewarding to say the least. As the non-profit organization works towards narrowing the various gaps between asylum seekers and health services, we also promote the importance of nutritionists in a healthcare team and engage leaders to participate in hands-on public health opportunities. As the COVID-19 pandemic blazed on, we have learned to adapt to the big picture and ask, what is the most we can do with all these limitations? It is a question that will continue to inspire me in everything I do.
The students at McGill lead by example to show that anything is doable with a lot of time and effort. In addition, Macdonald campus, where I am completing my degree in Dietetics, is an inviting environment to foster expression. I feel increasingly compelled to follow the voice in my head to be an advocate for groups (whether it be patients, communities, or students). Teachers, colleagues, friends, and family continue to challenge my ideas, and help me to break down the steps necessary to execute them. Studying at McGill has pushed me to my edge; so it has also taught me to step back in order to receive the fulfilment and joy of giving.