April 21st – 27th is National Volunteer Appreciation Week and at Mount Nittany Health we are honored to recognize the contributions of our more than 115 volunteers.
Ashlyn McClelland, a senior at Penn State University majoring in pre-medicine and minoring in Spanish, has been volunteering with Mount Nittany Health for the last three years. During her time as a volunteer, she has served on inpatient floors such as Women and Children’s Services Unit, and the ICU, Orthopedics, and has assisted with the Pet Therapy Program.
Ashlyn’s desire to learn about healthcare systems, coupled with her passion for people, made joining the Blue Coat Brigade a suitable and worthwhile experience.
“Being a part of the volunteer program has strengthened my resolve to care for my community and serve others. It’s helped solidify my desire to become a physician and pursue the necessary education to work in medicine,” said Ashlyn.
She looks forward to her weekly shifts where she assists providers and staff with tasks like stocking rooms, obtaining items from sterile processing, and delivering specimens to the lab. Even more so, she delights in connecting with patients.
“I absolutely love listening to patients talk about their lives, pets, families, travels, and anything else that brings them comfort when in the hospital,” said Ashlyn. “I enjoy creating meaningful conversations with patients who need a friend during what may be a very daunting time for them. I have learned that personability and empathy are key to establishing trustworthy connections with patients, which is something I will take with me throughout my journey in medicine.”
Ashlyn, originally from Perkasie, PA, will be attending medical school this coming fall at Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (SOM) in Stratford, NJ.
Please join us in thanking Ashlyn, and all of our incredible volunteers, for their immeasurable contributions to our health system. Please also join us in wishing Ashlyn luck on her journey at Rowan-Virtua SOM this fall.