Reflection:

Why did I volunteer? Am I having a hard time letting go of a job I loved and attempting to “fix” every problem I saw before I go? Possibly…

I know my motive is partly selfish. I am very attached to the students I worked with and am struggling immensely leaving the community I spent two years in.  I felt very lucky to have such strong connections with my students and saw them open up more to be everyday.  Their trust was imperative to the success of their employment and I truly cherished gaining it. 

My job only allowed me to approach job related topics. The social aspects of work were not covered and I really wanted to help my students find out more about these topics. I do think it has made it easier for me to leave my job having organized the start of these discussion groups. I sincerely hope they are able to continue or maybe I’ll just keep volunteering!

Either way, I know the students learned a little throughout the conversations. They also shared their thoughts with one another which I have learned is a rare occurrence but completely beneficial.

I think the mission statement of Cardinal Cushing strives for equality for all. In order for the students to really be equal in a social sense, I believe they need access to information and deserve to have any questions answered. 

It is the responsibility of the education system to provide these answers for the students. They are living in a world where they do not have families to talk to about these issues. They have teachers, residential staff, department of child family workers and clinicians.

It is unethical to skip out on talking about these issues. They may be more difficult to discuss but vital in allowing the student to have a fair chance at independence post age 22. If the students are not given the information or education, how can they be expected to make safe decisions?