Alicia Miller (25)

Alma Mater: John Carroll University

Pittsburgh, PA

Favorite Books

Harry Potter, Eat, Pray, Love

Favorite Movies

The Holiday, Shawshank Redemption, Miracle, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

Favorite TV

Glee, The Big Bang Theory, Friday Night Lights, Full House

Hobbies

Sports, running, dancing, traveling

What attracted you to GSV?

The variety of experiences and placements offered for the volunteers attracted me to the program.  I could tell I could get a lot out of the program.  Additionally the four tenets and stories of past GSVs and staff greatly appealed to me.

Where are you serving/what kind of work are you doing?

I am placed at Family Foster Care in the Bronx working with adolescents and helping them prepare for the future and adulthood.

How have you seen personal growth thus far as a result of your experience (site placement/community) with GSV?

Living in community with 5 other people I just met has definitely forced me to learn a lot about myself as far as how I relate to people and my own personality quirks.  My placement has made me appreciate my family and how fortunate I have been.  It has been a great learning experience so far. 

What is the best or most surprising part about your volunteer year so far?

I wasn’t sure what to expect so it all has been surprising – from learning to live on a stipend, to balancing work, spirituality, and community, to handling and enjoying city life. 

Any advice for someone considering post-graduate service?

I highly recommend it if you are open to it.  It can be a great experience that you will get a lot out of, as long as you do put in the effort.  It is a great opportunity to help others while also helping yourself.