EXPERIENCES
Orlando Health Healthcare Career Opportunity Volunteer Program (HCOP).
Overview:
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My experience in the Orlando Health Healthcare Career Opportunity Program (HCOP) has been instrumental in shaping my aspirations within the healthcare field. Over the course of the program, I had the privilege of immersing myself in various aspects of hospital operations, shadowing healthcare professionals, and gaining over 160 hours of hands-on exposure to clinical environments.
Key Highlights:
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Interdisciplinary Shadowing: Observed and collaborated with professionals across diverse roles, including doctors, nurses, cafeteria staff, and engineering teams, to understand the seamless interplay required for hospital efficiency.
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Clinical Insights: Participated in the observation of clinical procedures and patient care techniques, enriching my understanding of medical practices and hospital management processes.
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Communication Development: Strengthened my ability to communicate effectively by engaging with professionals at various levels, enhancing my adaptability and interpersonal skills in dynamic healthcare settings.
Impact:
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This program offered me a comprehensive view of the challenges and rewards within healthcare, affirming my commitment to pursuing a career that combines skill, compassion, and collaboration to improve patient outcomes.
Air Care Team Experience
Overview:
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Orlando Health’s Air Care Team serves as Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center with rapid-response emergency air transport, ensuring critical care reaches patients within the vital “golden hour.”
Shadowing Experience:
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Joined the Air Care Team and observed the skill, coordination, and dedication required in air medical services.
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Shadowed a pilot, flight nurse, and paramedic, gaining an in-depth understanding of their critical roles in patient care.
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Witnessed advanced trauma care, patient stabilization techniques, and teamwork both on-scene and in-flight.
Impact:
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Observed the team's calm focus and precision during multiple accident responses and in-flight procedures.
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Deepened respect for emergency medical professionals and reinforced a commitment to pursuing a career dedicated to impactful patient care.
Shadowing Dr. Cox, Orthopedic Surgeon
Overview:
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Shadowing Dr. Jacob Cox, an orthopedic surgeon, has been one of the most transformative experiences on my path toward becoming a surgeon. Over 100 hours spent in his private practice clinic and the operating room provided a comprehensive view of patient care in orthopedics.
Clinic Experience:
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Observed the full arc of patient care, from initial consultation through post-operative recovery.
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Learned how Dr. Cox integrated diagnostic expertise with compassionate care, interpreting X-rays and MRIs to identify injuries.
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Witnessed his ability to deliver complex diagnoses with clarity and empathy, emphasizing the role of communication in building patient trust.
Operating Room Insights:
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Gained hands-on exposure to surgeries involving knees, shoulders, and wrists, enhancing my understanding of human anatomy beyond textbooks.
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Witnessed the precision, resilience, and teamwork necessary for successful surgical outcomes.
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Observed the use of advanced surgical technology and how Dr. Cox adapted to challenges, maintaining sterile techniques and making strategic adjustments when procedures required flexibility.
Impact:
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This immersive experience deepened my fascination with orthopedics and provided invaluable insights into leading a medical team with skill and compassion. It reinforced my commitment to a career in surgery and to providing patients with the best possible care.
Worship Music Volunteer at Genesis Church
Overview:
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As a Worship Music Volunteer at Genesis Church, I have the privilege of helping create an atmosphere of worship and reflection for our congregation. Each week, I collaborate with a dedicated team of musicians and leaders to prepare and perform music that enriches the spiritual experience of our community. Playing guitar and leading worship has not only deepened my own faith but has also allowed me to contribute to others’ spiritual journeys.
Skills and Contributions:
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Strengthened teamwork, collaboration, and musical leadership skills by working closely with a team of musicians to select songs, rehearse, and create a cohesive worship experience.
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Adapted my playing style and approach to meet the varying worship needs of each service, demonstrating flexibility and commitment.
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Focused on fostering an environment where people feel connected, inspired, and uplifted through the power of music.
Impact:
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This role has shown me the transformative power of music in bringing people together and uplifting spirits.
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Serving in this capacity has reinforced my commitment to service and community-building, principles that guide my life and align with my aspirations in medicine.
Patient Companion at AdventHealth Children’s Hospital
Overview:
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As a Patient Companion at AdventHealth Children’s Hospital, I provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship to pediatric patients during their hospital stay. My role involves engaging in interactive activities such as reading, playing games, and arts and crafts to alleviate anxiety and bring moments of joy to the children’s day. This position has allowed me to form meaningful connections with both the children and their families, offering a sense of normalcy and warmth in an otherwise challenging environment.
Skills and Contributions:
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Developed skills in adapting to diverse patient needs and personalities, emphasizing patience, empathy, and attentive listening.
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Supported pediatric patients through creative and interactive methods, fostering emotional resilience and providing a sense of joy.
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Built rapport with families, creating a positive and compassionate atmosphere to support their child’s healing journey.
Impact:
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This experience has reinforced my commitment to compassionate care and deepened my understanding of the emotional and psychological aspects of patient care.
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Through my volunteer work, I’ve witnessed the profound impact that kindness and presence can have on a patient’s well-being, strengthening my desire to uplift and support others in my future medical career.
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Each interaction reminds me of the value of empathy and the power of service in making a meaningful difference.
Straight Street Volunteer
Overview:
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As a volunteer with Straight Street Orlando, I have the privilege of serving meals and distributing essential resources to individuals experiencing homelessness in downtown Orlando. Straight Street’s mission to “serve the hurting and homeless in our community” resonates deeply with my own commitment to service and compassion. Each week, I collaborate with a dedicated team of volunteers to organize and provide food, hygiene products, and other essentials, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect.
Skills and Contributions:
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Developed strong communication and interpersonal skills by listening to individuals’ stories and offering a compassionate ear.
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Strengthened empathy and adaptability while interacting with diverse populations and addressing immediate needs.
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Enhanced organizational skills by coordinating resources and ensuring efficient meal distribution.
Impact:
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This role has deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the importance of consistency and kindness in supporting those in need.
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I’ve seen firsthand the power of small gestures to brighten someone’s day, reinforcing the value of compassion and human connection.
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Volunteering with Straight Street inspires me to integrate a spirit of service into my future medical career, using my skills to care for and uplift underserved communities.