The freshmen students in Health Technology made a second trip to Columbus House Emergency Shelter. Once again, the very generous staff at Eli donated a great deal of clothes, and needed items to Columbus House. On this trip, we were able to have some of the freshmen spend time in the cafeteria helping with food preparations and other cafeteria related duties.  For many of our students, this was the first time they have had a chance to volunteer and help others. Many of our students found this experience to be very rewarding.

Other students helped out in the clothing room. Students helped fold, hang, and put away clothes that are free to people that need clothing. We ended our day with a tour of the shelter. As we heard mixed emotions from the first group that came on this field trip two months ago, so was the case with this group. As we toured the facility, questions came from the students regarding the close quarters in which people live, the showers that only have a plastic curtain separating each stall, and how the people living here are required to be out by 8 am with or without a job, or anywhere to go. 

Our freshmen students learned a great deal today especially the harsh reality of life for some. From this experience, our students have learned that as healthcare professionals, they must understand all of their patients and where their patients come from. In Health Technology, we emphasize empathy is much greater than sympathy when it comes to empowering our patients. Being able to put ourselves in the patient's shoes gives us a greater chance to empower our patients and those in need of our services.