Throughout my time at the University of Georgia, I have become involved in a variety of organizations both on and off campus. Here are a few of them.
UGA Medical Brigades in Panama
In May of 2024, I participated in a week-long medical service trip, delivering healthcare services to rural Panamanian communities. This experience was eye-opening to the health and healthcare access disparities that patients outside of the U.S. face on a daily basis and showed me first-hand how healthcare systems and resources shape health outcomes.
Oasis Católico Tutoring
Through my service-learning health promotion class, I completed 20 service hours tutoring and mentoring K-5 students in the Athens community. I went on to continue working with this organization during the rest of my semesters.
Empower In & Out
I co-founded this student organization to further support the community at Pinewoods through fundraising, advocacy, and outreach efforts. We encourage tutoring recruitment, hold percentage nights, and host fun events for the students like Trunk or Treat and an Easter Egg Hunt. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and solidified my commitment to serving those in my local community.
University Cancer & Blood Center
I started working at University Cancer & Blood Center during my senior year. Through this position, I gained experience in a busy oncology clinic performing skills including patient intake, vital signs, and phlebotomy. I have deepened my understanding of cancer care and treatment and their impact on public health.
UGA in Valencia Study Abroad
I studied abroad in Valéncia, Spain during the spring semester of my junior year. I completed the remaining coursework of my Spanish minor while fully immersing myself in the language and culture through daily academic and community engagement. I lived among University of Valencia students and took classes with professors of the school, which required consistent use of Spanish in both academic settings and everyday interactions, strengthening my communication skills and cultural fluency. I engaged with local customs, traditions, and perspectives through coursework and independent exploration of the city. Our excursions included visiting multiple historical cities including Barcelona, Madrid, Albufera, and Albarracín. This experience enhanced my adaptability, cultural awareness, and ability to communicate across linguistic and cultural differences.
Olivia Burgess' Portfolio 