Volunteering Job problems. I would really like some advice.

[futuresctRN]

Hi all,

I'll try to make this short and sweet. I'm in Nursing School I got a volunteering job... I was interviewed for it at the beginning of the fall semester and I recently tried it. (It's a long time gap, i know.) I have always been really shy and nervous about it, to the point of where I get panic attacks when i go there. I mean, I dread going... and this is why.

I'm lost. My volunteer coordinator didn't give me an orientation like she was supposed to. I don't even have a name badge and I don't know how to get one. She wrote me a long email about where to do and what to do.. but that's it. So on my first day I was left by myself to wander around the hospital not knowing where to go or who to talk to....feeling defeated, I eventually just left.

I was originally really excited about this position, because I really want an opportunity to help people and get some insight into the health care field. However, I feel like I have been given the short end of the stick here, and i don't really know what to do. I get so nervous about going back there because I don't want to awkwardly wander like before. I want to feel useful, not lost!

I asked my volunteer coordinator if I could switch to gift shop which I don't want to do, but I feel like it would help me feel more comfortable because at least I actually KNOW how to get there! I just don't know what to do. Should i preservere or find somewhere else to volunteer? Is it supposed to be this way?

Thanks to whoever reads,

[rafv]

I am so sorry for you! While I have not been in your position, I can most definitely say your experience is not what it is supposed to be. I would be very candid with the coordinator, and I would make sure to communicate clearly your expectations and be sure to understand what is expected of you. What is the worst thing that can happen if you explain to the coordinator the situation? Can't hurt....

Good luck to you! :)

[aachavez]

Definetly talk to the coordinator. I volunteerd in the ER (where i'd like to work as an RN) for a while. All I did was pass out blankets, and keep stations stocked with gloves. The coordinator and everybody has been really nice, I did get an orientation, and was shown around the unit, introduced and such. But after a while, I got super dooper bored there. So Wednesday I'll be learning how to work in ICU (answering phones, buzzing people in to the secure unit etc). I'll be getting a training on that as well.

Definetly talk to the coordinator, maybe have them introduce you to someone that can show you around and help you feel more comfortable. If that doesnt work, I'd try to find someplace else. Don't be miserable someplace you don't have to be, especially when you're not getting paid! lol Good luck!