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I am a rising-sophomore from Columbia, South Carolina. I plan to major in Sociology and have declared a concentration in Poverty Studies. This summer, while taking part in the Servant Scholars Program, I am also completing an internship for my concentration. While both the Servant Scholars Program and my concentration in Poverty Studies require service-oriented work, I became interested in living at the Vista House because of the community aspect of the program. I felt that living in a house with 7 other people, all of who are also engaging in similar experiences would provide both a meaningful and unique experience that would compliment the learning aspect of my internship.
I am working at the Greenville Free Medical Clinic, which serves low-income, uninsured residents of Greenville County. “Low income” is defined by the clinic as 200% of the federal poverty level. The office is located in Downtown Greenville’s Pendleton / Dunbar Street neighborhood, an area of the city known for higher rates of drugs, crime, and unemployment.
At the Clinic I will have the opportunity to serve at the three satellite clinics (Northwest Crescent – Berea, Greer and Golden Strip – Fountain Inn/Simpsonville) and observe poverty in different areas of Greenville County. I also have the opportunity to assist our health educator as he conducts classes for women’s health, our smokers, Hepatitis C, and diabetic patients.
From my involvement at the Clinic throughout the school year, and continued relationship during this summer, I have really learned that no single patient has the same background, situation, or circumstance that has left them without adequate healthcare. I enjoy every aspect of working and appreciate each opportunity to learn more as the days pass.