Gachonian
A New Chapter of Student Volunteering: Gachon University RCY’s Activities and Vision
Interview with Jihyun Kim, Vice President of RCY at Gachon University Global Campus
On April 11, 2024, the Gyeonggi Red Cross established RCY at Gachon University Global Campus, and a total of 112 Gachon University students joined RCY. The Red Cross Youth (RCY), an initiative of the Korean Red Cross, empowers students to engage in humanitarian efforts both nationally and globally. RCY works with the spirit of the Red Cross through various volunteer activities such as supporting the vulnerable, baking, and environmental volunteering. In this article, we will focus on the activities of RCY to date and its future vision through an interview with a student who participated in Gachon University’s Global Campus RCY.
1. Please introduce yourself.
I am Jihyun Kim, a sophomore in the Department of Social Welfare and currently serving as the Vice President of RCY at Gachon University Global Campus. I like volunteering for others and sharing my love. Thankfully, through RCY activities, I was given the opportunity to not only do volunteer work but also plan and operate it myself.
2. What memorable activities took place during the first semester?
The most memorable experience was the membership training (MT) with my fellow club members. As a volunteer organization, we engaged in plogging—combining jogging with picking up litter—to clean up the local environment. It was fulfilling to practice the Red Cross spirit during this event.
3. What activities does RCY have planned for the second semester?
For the second semester, we have several exciting activities planned, including volunteering at an animal shelter, a first aid competition, a career experience at a blood bank, and exchange programs with other campuses.
4. What is the greatest value and reward that RCY offers to students?
I believe RCY makes volunteering enjoyable. It transforms what could feel like tedious tasks into opportunities for joyful interaction with fellow students. Our volunteer work significantly raises awareness of social issues among our members. We primarily engage in community service, including regular volunteer activities at local welfare centers and plogging along rivers. Through these experiences, we understand the importance of directly addressing community problems and contributing to their solutions.
5. What else would you like to say to prospective members?
Gachon University RCY welcomes students who are eager to experience the joy of volunteering and sharing. If you’re interested in helping others, please keep an eye out for our recruitment period and consider joining us!
An interview with Jihyun Kim illustrates the importance of addressing community issues through RCY and contributing directly to their solutions. Students who wish to volunteer and share their passion for helping others are encouraged to engage with the activities of Gachon University RCY and explore their initiatives.