Receiving the Greater Reward (continued)
Volunteering Changes Perceptions
were asked questions about the college and what we thought made WKCTC stand out more than other colleges and what the school had to offer to other students and the community. It was humbling to think about the opportunities afforded through WKCTC. The interview process helped prepare us for going on a job interview, learning how to intelligently answer questions, and not being intimidated by someone else’s title or position. I learned how to give positive uplifting answers. Being a part of a group means elevating others for the common good of all. It was a long process, and at times, I felt like a cheerleader for the college. But for me it was important for others to know that a community college is not a second-rate place to attend. Community college
By Amber’Lee Douglas
When I was young I volunteered with a friend to help St. Vincent De Paul Budget Store in Paducah. I had forgotten student ambassador at West Kentucky Community and Technical College. While being an ambassador I got the chance to meet people from every walk of life who had at least one thing in common – the desire to help those in need. There are lessons in life that students cannot learn in a classroom, but they can learn them in the community. Experiencing the small changes that I and other ambassadors can make in our community has been
There are some things that you must learn outside of the classroom, and those lessons build skills to use before and after graduation.
Walk Diversity Conference in Decatur, Ill., the summer of 2011. I met an array of people with wonderful ideas who made me think outside the box and challenged me as well as supported my views on issues that affect us all. The conference gave me a sense of belonging I had not felt before. I volunteered with fellow students at several events in our community and on our campus. While helping out at WKCTC’s new student orientation, I was able to meet several students who had just joined the college and fellow students who were also involved in student organizations. We all came together for two Saturdays in August to assist new students in getting involved in student organizations. Several students got together for organization awareness days during the beginning of the
students, the organizations, and the college.
Page 12
place to continue an education.
While attending college I have had the privilege of learning more about my college and community than I had before. Until I offered to assist the West Kentucky Community and Technical College Scholarship Gala, I did not know that the community came together to donate money to our scholarship funds. During my time at the gala, I got the chance to meet several community leaders who care about the education in our region as much as my college does.
Getting the chance to help the Girl Scouts of Kentucky has enriched my experience as an ambassador. I was a member of the Girl Scouts for several years as a child. It was nice to give back to them for everything they had done for me as a child. The only “vacations” I went on was with my Girl Scout troop and I will always be thankful to them for the positive experiences they give young girls in our area.
Working with Dr. Barbara Veazey, WKCTC president, and other faculty, staff and students in preparing for
westkentucky.kctcs.edu
I am at times saddened to see the small amount of students who are involved in the campus activities at the school. Some people complain about what is not happening, but never take the time to explore and get involved in what is going on or what it could be with their help. The Student Voice Forum was attended by many, but should have been students to be heard. If you want to see change, sometimes
There were also many outside events that an ambassador could be a part of. There was a group of us who signed up and volunteered to be a part of the citywide effort for the United Way. There were companies, large and small, and several individuals that volunteered. The United Way sponsored a day for people to help out at one or more of the agencies in Paducah.
volunteered for the Salvation Army Christmas sign up. Even though my situation is not all I would like for it to be, many of the people who were signing up had even less than I did. Many have recently lost their jobs or are one of the longtime unemployed persons. I count myself fortunate that my needs are provided daily. I’m sure it is just as hard for the people to come in and ask for assistance. If someone who you know comes in, you can tell from their posture and the way they scan the room that they are uncomfortable coming to your table. If they have to come to your table, you have to know how to make them feel at ease and ask them the questions required.
were given various duties to perform. We worked together to get everything done. The workers stated this was the biggest group they had ever had to come in to help out. They were so impressed with the ambassadors and the way the tasks were performed, that they asked if we could come back again and be regular helpers. We learned to be diligent in all things that were given to us to do even if we did not like the task.
The experience renewed the thought that when you think you have it bad, look around you and see what someone else is going through.
The day that had the greatest impression on me was the day I
Service learning was an experience about service to others.
westkentucky.kctcs.edu (270) 534-3069
Community service should be a part of everyone’s life. Some people never have to ask for assistance. There are those of us who do know what it is like to be in need. When you have the opportunity to do it, pay it forward more than once.
Page 21