Meet Louise Cioban, a compassionate and driven volunteer with StudentsCare from Michigan State University. Louise’s decision to join StudentsCare was sparked by the inspiring stories shared by her former MSU chapter leader and co-worker, Kaylee Bell. Intrigued by the StudentsCare’s mission to support the greater Lansing community, Louise eagerly joined to make a difference in the lives of children facing challenging hospital stays. Join us as we delve into Louise’s experiences, favorite memories, thoughts on the importance of volunteering, and how being part of StudentsCare has shaped her aspirations for the future.
When asked why she decided to join StudentsCare, Louise shared that it was Kaylee’s heartfelt account of StudentsCare that truly inspired her. She was drawn to the opportunity to directly support children in hospitals, making their stay less daunting and providing a reliable support system during challenging times.
One of Louise’s most cherished memories with StudentsCare is delivering comfort kits to Sparrow’s Pediatrics unit. Witnessing the children’s gratitude and happiness upon receiving the kits filled her heart with joy. Being able to bring smiles to their faces and provide a sense of comfort left an indelible mark on Louise.
Louise strongly believes that volunteering is a responsibility that everyone should embrace. She has been actively involved in volunteering since high school, and it has continued to play a significant role in her life. Louise emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children and older adults. Louise shared, “These children are our future and we as volunteers are able to shape that future, allowing them to gain experiences that they will never forget.”
Louise has had the privilege of serving as the Chapter Leader for the MSU chapter of StudentsCare. Leading a team of dedicated individuals and working closely with the national team and Sparrow Hospital coordinator has been an incredible experience for her. With over a year of volunteering at Sparrow’s Pediatric Unit, Louise expresses her genuine love for the role and the impact it has had on her life.
Spending time with the hospitalized children has been a transformative experience for Louise. “Visiting with the kids at Sparrow Pediatric Unit and hearing about their stories, what movies they like, their favorite hobbies, what they aspire to be when they grow up, it all means so much to me,” she shared.
Louise’s journey with StudentsCare exemplifies the transformative power of volunteering as a college student. Through her dedication, compassion, and commitment, she has touched the lives of pediatric patients and gained invaluable experiences that will shape her future as a physician. Louise’s story serves as an inspiration for others to embrace volunteering as a means to give back, create lasting memories, and positively influence the lives of those in need.
Louise currently works as an ER scribe and is set to graduate from Michigan State University in December 2023. Growing up in Shelby Township, Michigan, as an only child to immigrant parents, she has always aspired to pursue a career in medicine. Having recently taken the MCAT, Louise plans to apply to medical school in spring 2024, fueled by her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.
“I know that through this experience I have gained memories that will last a lifetime and experiences that will shape my future career in healthcare. And that the lessons I’ve learned through my time volunteering with StudentsCare will help guide me to become an empathic, compassionate, and driven physician.”