Ontario Gamma Marielle Morris has maintained a strong faith throughout college and is especially proud to be a member of Hillel at the University of Guelph. The group participates in the campus’ Multi Faith Resource Team, a group of leaders and representatives from a number of diverse faith communities. Marielle speaks fondly of the team’s monthly dinners that allow students to learn more about various religions. “It is good to be open to all religions,” says Marielle, “and to let others learn more about Judaism.”

This summer, Marielle was able to combine her strong faith with her interest in biomedical sciences by traveling to Israel and volunteering on ambulances. The trip began with a 10-day training course and then the volunteers began the actual volunteer work. Marielle would complete three to five eight-hour shifts a week, working out of the main ambulance station. On a typical shift, the volunteers would receive a call to the station, and the driver talks to the patients to assess what is going on and what response is needed. In some cases, the volunteers would need to transport people to the hospital. But in other cases, they were able to take care of the situation on site. It was exciting for her to see the whole behind-the-scenes work on the ambulances.

While in Israel, Marielle was also able to sharpen her skills of speaking in Hebrew, which she has not used a lot in the last two years. She also had the opportunity to visit many cousins and relatives she has overseas. Marielle felt a special pride serving in the Jewish homeland and being able to help out the community. No worries, she already has plans to visit again soon!