SHU Volunteer Programs & Service Learning

New Year, New Experience

• Coming back for a second year of AMP was something that I was looking forward to since March. Even though this year was going to be different than the last, I’m still grateful that it’s happening at all. I love being able to work with my mentee and see her continue to grow and change from the first time I met her to now. As much as I wish that all of the mentors and mentees could be face to face with one another, this experience is something that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
• Gabby Teutul ‘23

AMP Brings Joy During Difficult Time

• It has been such a pleasure working with the students of John Winthrop because they have brought so much joy to these tough times. This is my first year being a mentor so I have not had the chance to experience AMP in the “normal way”. This would normally be disappointing however, I have had the chance to meet so many amazing kids and despite being online, we all still have amazing connections. I can’t wait to continue working with these kids!
• Sara Webel ‘22

AMP On Zoom

• This is my second year being a mentor for AMP and I was a little wary of how this would be over Zoom since I was able to do it in person last year. Even with everything being online, coming to AMP and seeing all the kids interact with each other during enrichment always puts a smile on my face. It’s so nice to see them get so excited about the games we have and participate even while it’s over Zoom. Being able to come each week and hang out with the kids is always a nice part of my week and definitely is a stress reliever!
• Victoria Acca, ’22

 

AMP Gives Happiness

• With everything in our lives on pause right now, it has been so nice to be able to still come to AMP every week and connect virtually. Being with all the kids never fails to put a smile on my face and always reassures me that no matter how much it feels like the world is upside down, there still is so much to be happy about!
• Cassidy Woods ‘21

Jadyn's AMP Experience

    As a returning mentor I was unsure what virtual AMP was going to look like and presented a challenge for the teachers, mentors, coordinators and mentees. However, everyone has stepped up to the plate and has made AMP the best possible experience given the circumstances. The enrichment activities we have done have been engaging and allow the students to interact with each other as well as their mentors. All the mentees seem to have so much fun playing the guessing games and listening to guest speakers. While I wish we could be in person, virtual AMP is still incredible for everyone involved in the program. 

• • Jadyn Anton, ’21

 

Jillian's AMP Experience

As the Academic Mentor Program (AMP) transitioned virtual, there were many variables to navigate. With the perseverance and optimism of the mentors, mentees, and staff, AMP has been running smoothly this semester! All mentoring is taking place via zoom allowing mentors and mentees to get individualized tutoring time while having the ability to join back as a whole group for enrichment. We have had great guest speakers to talk to our mentees this semester about various activities and career paths (yoga instructor, a Lawyer, two SHU student nurses) and we look forward to many more next semester. The positive attitudes from everyone involved makes me look forward to going to AMP every day! 

- Jillian Rigby, AMP Coordinator 

Noah's AMP Experience

I am very glad I decided to take part in the AMP program. This is my first year mentoring and I was anxious about what my mentee would think of me. Although my mentee does not always show up, I have enjoyed my interactions with him so far. He is very reluctant to work at times, but when he begins he is a hard worker. Once again, I am very glad that I decided to take part in the Academic Mentoring Program.

- Noah Vargoshe ‘23

 

Sydney's AMP Experience

The AMP program has been a great program to be a part of. This year is my first year of AMP and I was quite nervous about how it was going to go. I didn’t know if I would be able to make a difference or be able to connect with my mentee but all my fears went away after the first day. I am the mentor to Mentee A, and he is a bright and funny student. He’s always willing to put in the work each session and always finds moments to make it fun. It’s been a blessing to be a part of this program. 

- Sydney Worthen-Jenkins ‘23 

Thanksgiving Food Drive

 

Every year around this time we are taught to be thankful and to think of others. This year, the office of Volunteer Programs and Service Learning strongly encourages you to continue your involvement, wherever you are. It could be donating money or nonperishable food items to help those in need, or reaching out in some way to those who could use another reason to smile this holiday season. Our campus community has been exceptionally generous around the holiday season in providing donations to our annual Food Drive. Although this year looks different in many respects, our commitment to the community remains unchanged. Because of the generosity from individuals and groups all across campus, we will deliver 6 vans filled with nonperishable food items to our partners at St. Charles Church in Bridgeport, along with 400 turkeys provided by Student Government and an additional $900 raised by the Athletic Department. In the midst of an economically challenging year, these gifts will make a significant impact on the lives of our sisters and brothers in the Bridgeport community. If you would like to get involved or help in any way, we would welcome you to reach out. Email Annie Wendel at wendela3@mail.sacredheart.edu or Dylan Moore at moored9@mail.sacredheart.edu.  

 

Fiona Buckley's VPSL Work Study Experience

My job was to drive volunteers to their different off-campus work sites in the greater Bridgeport area. I had to reach out to the students signed up for the day, meet with them on campus, and drop off and pick them up at their volunteer site. I chose the VP & SL office because I love volunteering opportunities so it allowed me to get some service hours as well at different locations, but also I know that this office works really hard to make the best opportunities for all SHU students, the volunteers and work studies! This job was extremely flexible in scheduling as there were opportunities at all points in the day throughout the week, so I could choose times when I was available. It was also really cool getting to meet new students and chat with them before and after the volunteer sites. Plus listening to music on the car rides was fun! This job can help prepare you for the future as it replicates a "real" job where you are assigned hours and have other students to switch shifts with, and you are given responsibilities for your shifts. Another unique aspect with this specific job was that it allows you to socialize with other students in a unique way. It is a great way to meet new people and learn about the community surrounding our home at SHU!