JSSA Volunteer Internship

Presenter: Davi Jacobs, Biochemistry & Journalism, Global Public Health Scholars

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I interned for the Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA.) JSSA provides many resources to uplift communities. They serve a wide range of populations, from immigrants needing help in their adjustment process to people nearing the end of life and their caregivers. I was eager to be a part of JSSA's impact on the community through a pre-med focused lens and I was able to get that through the departments I worked with. I served vulnerable, elderly populations and youth grappling with mental health illnesses. Most of the work I did was centered around interacting with people, which is what I desired. Specifically, I took on three different projects. With the HomeCare Team, I sat in on team meetings, was introduced to policy work for Advance Directives, shadowed the RN on client check-ins, and created a presentation on navigating stress for caregivers that I presented at a townhall. With the Hospice team, I was able to interact with Hospice patients and I helped with flower arranging on Thursdays. With the Youth Advisory Council, I met with and interviewed members of the group to get their mental health stories. It was really nice to be a part of a community that is passionate about making a difference and I learned that I want to my future employment to be this passionate, caring, and meaningful. I learned that there are so many areas to make a difference in-the sky is the limit. Regarding the public health connection, JSSA serves so many populations that each has distinct health concerns. By gaining exposure and familiarizing myself with people from all backgrounds, I not only expanded my cultural competency, but I will also be able to now carry the skills I strengthened with me in my future practice as a physician.