Listening, Learning, and Leading
“I would recommend national service to others because in my personal opinion, it is an amazing experience. You get to meet amazing people, give back to the community, have so many resources to get information from, and it is just an overall great learning experience.”
As the Pantry Coordinator at LifeCare Alliance, Sokhna Diop has built the capacity of her site, evaluating how to better serve the community and provide relevant resources. Through her experience as a VISTA member, Sokhna feels that her problem-solving skills have deepened. To inform LifeCare Alliance’s services, she has spent time calling clients to learn about their greatest needs. However, she has also found it necessary to be creative in her outreach efforts, especially when it is difficult to reach clients by phone.
As many clients served through LifeCare Alliance are cancer patients, Sokhna feels that her perspective has changed significantly. Interacting with these clients has reminded her of the things in her life that are easily taken for granted.
“My experience of living in and serving those who are in poverty changed me personally because it always reminds me to be grateful for both the things and the people who are in my life,” she says.
Sokhna believes she has made contributions to her site that will outlive her service, and she feels grateful for everything her service has offered her.
“I would recommend national service to others because in my personal opinion, it is an amazing experience,” she says. “You get to meet amazing people, give back to the community, have so many resources to get information from, and it is just an overall great learning experience.”
Following her service, Sokhna is excited to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering and secure an internship in the field. Great work, Sokhna, and best of luck in your next step!