January: Boiling Water and Selling Tickets

WHO DAT.. WHO DAT. The fans swarmed me, demanding raffle tickets, chunking $10 and $20 bills my way, hoping somehow to win. But alas, the 50/50 raffle server was down. The tickets were drained. And the raucous fans who lined up for the entire third quarter were disheartened. However, not even 20 minutes later, the stadium was electric once more. Cameron Jordan of the New Orleans Saints forced Cam Newton of the Panthers to throw the ball away, just barely avoiding the sack. But wait, the referee said, "Intentional Grounding, #1 offense." And ohh how the trumpets roared, the towels waved and the drinks flowed. The Saints were marching on to the Divisional Round. I can say without a doubt volunteering at the 50/50 raffle (my first ever NFL game live) was an incredible experience. Better yet, a good handful of my classmates decided to volunteer at the game together, the true spirit of camaraderie coming to fruition around the game of football. While I had one of the silliest outfits (wearing a big flag on my back the whole game), I felt it only enhanced the authentic game day experience, allowing me to be a beacon for Saints fans feeling lucky to donate to 50/50's great cause and take home half of the $135,000 pot (which has shockingly not been claimed).

After the Saints game, I looked for an opportunity to get involved in clinical volunteering. I have since started volunteering twice a week at the CTU (Clinical Translational Unit) at Tulane and hope to assist the clinic staff with whatever tasks they require of me, whether it be filing, organizing, etc. I want to be more experienced with the caveats of clinical research as I transition into medical school and beyond.

Side note: Cold weather in New Orleans is not fun at all. Be prepared for Boil Water advisories potentially for days. It is truly a humbling experience and makes you realize everyday things we take for granted. Good thing I always have my handy Ozarka jug with me.

Total Hours= 14.5 hours





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