Nursing Intern Spotlight: Lauren Armbruster and Rebecca Ries
Student Spotlight: Rebecca and Lauren's Journey at The Luke Clinic
Rebecca and Lauren, final-year nursing students at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, have both dedicated themselves to volunteering at The Luke Clinic. Lauren has been a part of the clinic's volunteer team for four years, beginning her journey as an EMT. Rebecca, inspired by one of her professors, also joined the clinic a year ago.
Lauren's Path: From Childcare to Medical Mentorship
Lauren's journey at The Luke Clinic began in the childcare room, where she built strong relationships with our families. Over time, she felt a calling to join the medical team, drawn by their unified and cooperative approach. Lauren has cherished the mentorship from doctors and nurses, which has significantly shaped her approach to patient care. "Volunteering at The Luke Clinic has taught me the importance of building trust and investing in relationships with patients," Lauren shares. She also values the encouragement to engage in appropriate faith conversations with patients, enriching her experience and connection with those she serves.
Rebecca's Growth: From Respect to Trauma-Informed Care
Rebecca's introduction to The Luke Clinic came through a professor who highlighted the volunteer opportunity as a way to learn more about patient populations and prenatal care. Rebecca has discovered the inherent dignity in each patient, emphasizing the importance of respect in treatment. "The medical team at The Luke Clinic treats nursing students with respect, which is something I haven't always experienced in the hospital system," she notes. Unexpectedly, Rebecca's most significant growth has been in pediatric care, working with infants, and learning to staff the lab. Her exposure to trauma-informed care at the clinic has made her feel much more comfortable caring for patients with a history of trauma.
Future Aspirations and Lasting Impact
Looking ahead, Lauren plans to work in the ER, while Rebecca aspires to become a midwife. Their consistent and reliable volunteer work has greatly contributed to The Luke Clinic's medical team and the overall patient experience. Rebecca and Lauren's stories highlight the profound impact of compassionate care and the importance of fostering respectful, trusting relationships in the medical field.
Their dedication and growth at The Luke Clinic stand as a testament to the invaluable experience gained through volunteer work, shaping them into empathetic and skilled future healthcare professionals.
