During my volunteering experience with Zion's Legacy Walk, a blood clot awareness association, I was responsible for reaching out to potential sponsors through emails and phone calls. This role not only developed my communication and organizational skills, but also deepened my appreciation for the biological importance of blood clotting.
As I engaged, I took the initiative to learn more bout the science behind blood clotting disorders. I discovered that understanding blood clotting at the molecular level involves studying nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, which carry the genetic instructions for producing clotting factors, essential protein in the coagulation process. Exploring these biological topics allowed me to understand how genetic mutations can lead to various clotting disorders, highlighting the importance of scientific research ad public awareness.
This connection between my volunteering and bioogy coursework demonstrates how practical experiences can enhance academic learning. This volunteering was also virtual, so it allowed me to easily contribute without having to sacrifice my health while being on bed rest due to an illness. While I was able to learn about the biological aspects of blood clotting, being responsible for contacting business and individuals I had never met before challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop leadership qualities. I learned to communicate our mission clearly, adapt my approach based on feedback, and take initiative when faced with rejection or uncertainty. These experiences strengthened my confidence, resilience, and passion, all while fueling my knowledge of biological topics in the real world.