Volunteer options

[gs3476]

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Hi SDN friends,

I have two volunteer opportunities that I wanted to get some feedback for. I already have around 320 volunteer hours from when I was in college (places like Habitat for Humanity, homeless shelters, salvation army, retirement homes, etc) but haven't accumulated much since 2013.

Now, I have the opportunity of volunteering at the only local hospital in town or at a junior high school. At the hospital, I would essentially be in charge of the popcorn station and of directing visitors to whatever part of the hospital they are needing to go to. At the junior high, I would be volunteering to teach private violin lessons for kids who can't afford them elsewhere.

My question is: what would look better on my DO application for next cycle? Should I try to look for other types of volunteer options?

Thanks in advance for any advice or recommendations 🙂

 

[The Best Psychiatrist]

The violin lessons seems more meaningful and more fulfilling than the other option.
However, the other option is in a hospital environment, and that's pretty relevant.

But, I'd probably stick with the music tutoring. JUST DO WHAT YOU ENJOY MORE, MAN.

 

[DrMaximus]

Honestly, many people are going to volunteer randomly in a hospital. That's not a bad thing at all, however, I think giving free lessons to people who cant afford them is going to stand out far more. If nothing, it's a huge talking point at an interview.

 

[Dreamstoo]

OP, I think you're fine. I had very meaningful volunteering experiences that weren't non-medical and helped me become the person I am today. Go with the music.

 

[ALewis]

To echo everyone else, I think the violin lessons will have the biggest impact overall, especially on a personal level. You'll be offering a service to a part of the community which does not have many chances to participate in creative opportunities. It is also unique - someone who volunteered to teach violin lessons would stand out in my memory moreso than the umpteenth hospital volunteer.

If you have clinical experience in some capacity, I say go for the lessons.

 

[holdthemayo]

I agree with everyone else. The hospital gig looks like you are checking the generic hospital volunteer box. The violin lessons shows personal passion and makes you unique and well rounded.

 

[gs3476]

Thanks for the advice, everyone! I was leaning more towards the violin lessons and y'alls advice helped solidify the idea 🙂