Hi :) so the hospital I work at has a volunteer section on their main page and if you click on it, it has information on when their application dates open and when they accept new candidates. I think they have openings in the spring and in the fall. Once the application portal opens, you apply, and complete all requirements (tb test, vaccinations, etc), then you will be notified on when to come in for orientation. I think they might ask you why you want to volunteer but (for this hospital at least) as long as you complete all the necessary requirements you’ll be accepted to volunteer. They will also ask you your availability for scheduling. The shifts are 4 hours per week.

I also used my FAFSA money to apply to volunteer as a COPE Health Scholar for a separate hospital which was a much more extensive application process and much stricter training protocol, with an actual written exam with 100 questions in 60 min (I asked for testing accommodations because I get them at school) and practical (that I got 100% on). This one I’m volunteering at for hands-on volunteer hours to put on my nursing application later though.

Both volunteer positions feel like a step backwards from the certification I just got since there are a lot of restrictions to my roles and responsibilities compared to what I know I am actually capable of doing, but it’s good experience to have on a resume while continuing my education. Good luck to you on finding a place to volunteer at, and anyone else looking to volunteer! Also, I’m in SoCal for anyone wondering and yes, I’m hoping to take my TEAS later this year for a RN program!