Volunteering with Unite For Sight is not to be undertaken lightly. This is no vacation, and I don't expect it to be easy. I have started the Volunteer Training Module and the whole first section, consisting of multiple modules, is about thinking critically before deciding to go on this trip, as to not waste the time and effort of the host clinic by leaving early or not behaving appropriately. Unfortunately for me, especially if I wanted to not go after reading the modules about the strains and limitations of working at the clinic, this module is available after registering and submitting deposits on the trip, and for me it is far too late to back out. Fortunately I am still very excited about my upcoming trip.
There is a lot of training modules, and they take a good amount of time, especially if you are also doing research. Get started early and be prepared to put in the effort. There are quite a few past volunteer testimonials about how vital the material is, so I am definitely going to complete it all thoroughly. I found a way to get credit indirectly from my school, UConn, by having the preparations and modules incorporated into an Independent Elective that I coordinated with my Premed Adviser and the Premed adviser of the PNB department.
Deciding to do research as a part of volunteering is also something that should be done early. I did not think i would do it originally, but my adviser recommended it and Laura Reynolds, who is a wonderful resource and has been so great to work with, proposed several studies that had been requested by the clinics in the area. If you do choose research, be prepared for many extra modules, as well as extra training and general hoops to jump through with your local IRB board. Plan ahead!
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