As high school students return to school, many carry lessons from UConn Health’s Summer Student Volunteer Program. For 65 teens, the past eight weeks weren’t just about time off but about gaining hands-on experience in health care.
This program showcased the commitment and motivation of local students who wanted to make a difference. Participants aged 14–17 explored various roles, lending a hand in ways like greeting patients, delivering flowers, and supporting clinical staff.
“The student volunteers brought essential support to our patients,” says Deja Rivera from the Office of Patient Experience. “They helped ease appointments and visits, giving them valuable insights into daily hospital operations.”
This year saw over 130 applications, highlighting the community’s interest in health care. April Mansi, the volunteer services program coordinator, noted that the experience enriched both the volunteers and the patients.
One standout student, Sarah Gerard, is a senior at Avon High School. Inspired by her family, she dreams of becoming an advanced practice registered nurse. Her summer included escorting patients and even sitting in on a neurology appointment. “It was fascinating,” she shares, emphasizing the real-world exposure she gained. Sarah is also striving for her EMT license and actively volunteers with the Harwinton Fire Department.
Noor Hassan, a 10th grader from Madina Academy, also joined to give back. She appreciated learning about patient care and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into health services, including how medical records are maintained. “The program taught me about teamwork and provided insight into different health care areas,” she said.
Data shows that youth volunteering can significantly boost career readiness. A survey from the Corporation for National and Community Service indicated that young volunteers are more likely to pursue higher education and secure jobs. Both Sarah and Noor exemplify how valuable experiences like these can shape future careers.
Both students are grateful for their mentors, emphasizing the importance of guidance in their journey. Noor’s experience highlights the program’s impact as a pathway for young people to develop essential skills and explore potential careers.
In a world where health care continues to evolve, programs like this foster the next generation of professionals. Those interested can look for more about the Summer Student Volunteer Program starting in March 2026 on UConn Health’s website.
