In the spirit of National Volunteer Month, Stony Brook University highlights the inspiring efforts of its students who are actively contributing to societal improvements. Among them, Amin Khwaja and Carolyn Huang stand out for their dedication and innovative approaches to addressing food insecurity and healthcare support respectively. Through volunteerism, these students not only enrich their communities but also gain invaluable experiences that shape their personal and professional growth.

Amin Khwaja: Pioneering Efforts Against Food Insecurity

Amidst the vibrant academic environment of Stony Brook, junior Amin Khwaja, a biochemistry major, has dedicated his college journey to tackling food scarcity. Since his freshman year, he has been associated with the campus food pantry, known as the “Seawolves Pantry,” where he initially served as a volunteer before transitioning into an intern role. Recognizing the pervasive challenge of food insecurity across Long Island, Amin took initiative by founding the Hunger Initiative Club. This club introduces creative projects such as Adopt-a-Week, encouraging various campus organizations to host weekly food drives. Their efforts were recognized when they secured a $400 grant from The Contribution Project, facilitating the donation of hundreds of essential food items. Looking ahead, Amin envisions integrating food security solutions within the healthcare sector by collaborating with Northwell Hospitals to establish a food pantry. His advice to aspiring volunteers is simple yet profound: embrace new opportunities and give your best effort without fear.

Carolyn Huang: Enhancing Healthcare Through Volunteering

Health science major Carolyn Huang has been volunteering at Stony Brook University Hospital since her first year, rotating through diverse departments including Food and Nutrition Services, the Cancer Center Food Pantry, and the Birth Registrar. Her role at the Birth Registrar involves distributing birth certificate forms and guiding mothers on completing the necessary paperwork. Carolyn cherishes this interaction, appreciating the warmth and excitement shared by new mothers. Beyond this, she manages inventory and ensures food supplies for the pantry. For Carolyn, volunteering serves dual purposes—enhancing her communication skills while gaining practical experience in a healthcare setting. Her involvement reflects a commitment to both personal development and community upliftment.

As we celebrate these remarkable students, their stories inspire us to recognize the transformative power of volunteerism. By stepping forward and engaging with pressing issues, individuals like Amin and Carolyn exemplify how small actions can lead to significant changes, fostering healthier, more supportive communities. Whether it's addressing food insecurity or supporting hospital operations, their endeavors underscore the importance of active participation in creating positive societal impacts.