KATIE REING
Over 400 students of the incoming freshman class attended this year’s ninth annual day of service, Monday, Aug. 26. Sites the students attended included the Ronald McDonald House, Project H.O.M.E. and the Inglis House.
This year, the freshman attended their sites with their college success classes. Faculty and staffers were all a pivotal part of the day of service.
Many students were skeptical – even afraid – of having to do the volunteer work. Lauren Sanford, a freshman in Vicki Maumus’ college success class said, “I thought it was going to be a weird experience.” However, at the end of the day, Sanford said, “It turned out to be one of my best experiences.”
“It’s an emotional experience,” said Christina Cerminaro, a freshman business administration major. “You learn how to accept it better.”
David Chiles, the coordinator of service learning resources, was in charge of this year’s day of service. Chiles said that many of the groups that went on day of service are planning on returning to their sites in the future.
Some of the freshmen were excited about volunteering in the area. Kristen Parks, a freshmen elementary education major, has no problem being required to participate in day of service. “I think it’s a good experience,” Parks said.
Jessica Morgan, campus minister, was pleased with the outcome of the day. “It seemed like everybody had a good time and learned a lot about service.”
Students who participated in day of service received a warm welcome back, as staff members were waiting to serve them Rita’s Water Ice. All in all, the day went from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Peggy Haley, director of volunteers at the Inglis House in Philadelphia, appreciated the help the volunteers gave the residents. Speaking about the students, Haley said, “They were enthusiastic and friendly. They fit right into our community.”
Students at the Inglis House were assisting physically challenged residents at the nursing facility. Haley said, “It was like they’ve been here before.”
Many of the locations, including the Inglis House, are constantly looking for volunteers to help them out. Students interesting in volunteering at these locations can contact campus ministry.
For next year’s freshman class, Megan Farley, a freshman accounting major said, “Don’t be scared of what you’re about to experience. I came out of it with a big smile on my face.”
