Kirstin is a sophomore majoring in political science. Her schoolwork seems nothing short of impossible, yet somehow she finds the time to balance the heavy workload with running track and volunteering for Habitat for Humanity.

Her constant enthusiasm makes volunteering seem somewhat of a privilege, rather than an obligation. What started out as a requirement for all sports teams, the Habitat for Humanity project has turned into somewhat of a social event. It gives athletes the chance to mingle with others, outside of their sport, while also giving back to the community.

Before Kirsten, volunteering seemed to be just another commitment that the athletes really didn't have time for, amid their busy schedules. As soon as she came in and organized habitat, there was a completely different atmosphere surrounding the project. I can now say, that many of the athletes here at the college, myself included, look forward to volunteering in the fall and spring. Kirsten is a great leader as well as a great friend. She is eager to listen, and knows what it takes to make a place for yourself among others, here at the College of Charleston.

About Kristin Schumy...
Expected Graduation: Spring 2008
Degree Objective: Political Science
Hometown: Marietta, Georgia
Community service: Habitat for Humanity, Big Brother & Big Sister, volunteering at various after-school programs for underprivileged children, president of the Student Athlete Advisory Board
Most memorable volunteer experience? I've had plenty over the past two years since I've been in Charleston. I feel like this city has such a strong hands-on community, and volunteering just makes it easy to fit in to such a tight-knit community. My most memorable though would have to be Habitat last fall, when the entire women's cross-country and track team participated. It was such a great turnout and it really helped in breaking the ice, between the freshman and upperclassmen.
What do you enjoy most about community service? The name says it all. It's just such a great way to get involved, to meet people with the same ideals as you, and to give back to a community that seems to be so patient with the college students that are residing here.
What are your plans after you graduate? I am a political science major so I hope to go as far as I can with that. I would love to stay in Charleston and go to law school, but I guess that will be decided when the time comes!
How would your friends describe you? Yikes! Probably pretty outgoing, always on top of things, maybe a little OCD every now and then, but for the most part, just really laid back.
What have you learned about yourself through volunteering? We are far more fortunate than we ever care to think we are. There are so many problems out there, just waiting to be solved, but it takes someone who is willing to open their eyes. Volunteering has taught me to do just that. It is absolutely necessary to approach everything with an open mind, and working with different groups of people has made me realize just how important that is.
How would you recommend finding a project to volunteer for, if just starting out? It's important that you are working for something that you really believe it. I recommend going on-line, and just looking at all the opportunities that are available for volunteers. You would be blown away. Call the organization and just set up a date to meet with someone who can explain what they are all about. Decide if it's something you really want to do, and just go from there!

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