Bound for Medical School Volunteer Plans for the Future

On the advice of her academic advisor at the University of Houston, Lizette Rangel began volunteering at Memorial Hermann Hospital to acquaint herself with the medical field. Nearly three years and more than 560 hours later, Rangel is being recognized as Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital Volunteer of the Year.

"Lizette sets an example and standard for other young adult volunteers," said Marsha Weiss, director of VolunteerServices at Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital. "We are fortunate she shares her talents with our patients, families and staff."

"Volunteering helped me decide to major in biology and premed," the U of H senior said. "I now plan to apply to medical school."

Beginning May 1999, Rangel initially shadowed therapists in the physical therapy department. When Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital opened in November 1999, she offered her services to pediatric patients and their families.

"So many families go through a rough time there – I just want them to know that there is a caring person beside them," she said.

Rangel participates in the hospital’s Baby Buddy and Pedi Pal programs and was elected to the Memorial Hermann Volunteer Organization board in 2001. Sensing the need for Spanish-speaking volunteers, Rangel has recruited bilingual college friends to volunteer as well. Her volunteer activities at Memorial Hermann have prompted her to also tutor students at Austin High School and found the Cougar Organ Donation Association, an organ donation education group at U of H.

"Between school, work and volunteering, I have to manage my time wisely," she said. "But for me, making a difference in people’s lives is what makes it all worthwhile."

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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