Service Learning Profile

by Jasmine Badr

About my site

I work at the Suisun Wildlife Rescue Center. It houses a variety of wildlife, like eagles, hawks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, pigeons, squirrels, turtles, possums, etc.

It has a front desk area, an area for viewing certain resident animals, an interior area for giving medical treatment, a kitchen for preparing specialized meals, and various living spaces indoors and out for our residents and recovering animals.

Why I chose this site

At first, I wanted to work at the Library (because books are awesome). When I went to the Library for an application, they told me that they already had some volunteers and getting hours would be difficult, but the wildlife center had contacted them and mentioned needing volunteers. So I checked it out.

I like that area in Suisun, and I've always been fond of animals. I've grown up in the country/farm area, and I've had countless pets throughout my life. Treating and helping animals seemed coo'.

My experience

I'm having a pretty positive experience at this site (I've committed until the fall, when I move.)

My duties range from preparing unique meals for the animals based on their needs, washing dishes, mopping, dusting, sweeping, taking calls, breaking and bagging chunks of frozen mice, feeding and cleaning our live mice, taking calls, taking in arrivals, and assisting with medical treatment. Also avoiding angry turkeys.

Supervisor Evaluation

My supervisor (Margie) said I was a great help and a hard worker, but she did acknowledge that I was a bit lazy/and I was late oftentimes.

I agree >_>

Visuals

Scalpy the pidgeon

A young bird not yet realizing he can FEED HIMSELF OMG

Fellow volunteer Brandon holding a very squeamish Tank

man chicks r always JUDGING ME

scalp

Burr aka peepers

Personal Growth

I've gotten more used to working in "shifts", basically showing up and being on the job until everything's been closed/locked up/double-checked, before finally heading out and relaxing. It's really good job training.

I already knew that it takes me a bit to warm up to new groups and environments. I start out super quiet, but as I learn people's' names and my way around, I come out of my shell and get crazy.

Reflection

So far, it's been a great experience. I'm able to put this on applications for jobs, scholarships, etc. too, which is nice.