GSL Member Discusses Opportunities, Unique Experiences Provided by Group

Elizabeth Ogg: What are some of the service trips that you have been on with Global Service Learning?

Meera Bhardwaj: I’ve done a lot of local service and I went to Malawi. [When we serve people] we try not to impose our own ideals. The community tells us what they need us to do for them. [In Malawi] we made cement and moved bricks as well as did work at a health center. We helped a nurse that worked 365 [days a year]; we measured arms on babies to determine if they were malnourished.

I think we helped them out a lot just because they were so understaffed. We also went to schools and worked with kids and hung out with kids.

EO: What trips and activities have impacted you the most?

MB: The first thing I joined when I came to Lincoln was Global Service Learning. Through GSL I’ve learned about other organizations like The Salvation Army, Nebraska AIDS Project, CROPS and Mourning Hope. That’s only a small spectrum of the groups you can join in Lincoln. I really like the fusion of service, and I like that you have to do service to be part of the group. I enjoy it because no matter how much I give I get double back. Plus, I’m always learning something new.

EO: There is an Indian Reservation trip in January. What will activities does GSL have planned for this trip?

MB: We are going to two reservations, Rosebud Reservation and Crow Creek Reservation. Rosebud reservation has after-school programs where we can volunteer.

The trip is still tentative, but we will probably drive through Pine Ridge and through Whiteclay, Neb.

EO: How has being a GSL Member impacted you and your academic career?

MB: It’s a great opportunity. There are so many things to do on Wesleyan’s campus and I’m glad I chose this one. It’s continually self challenging and it’s allowed me to travel. I’m planning on getting a degree in International Law, so this really goes along with what I want to do. It has not only allowed me to be involved on campus but also off campus. It’s a bridge between that college student bubble and the real world.

To anyone who is considering joining GSL – please don’t think that you have to be liberal or a woman to join. We are trying to have a diverse group. Don’t be discouraged if you apply and don’t get it the first time. If you are interested – apply again. If it doesn’t work the first time, think about what you can do to make yourself an ideal candidate.

Meera Bhardwaj is a senior and International Business major at NWU. She has been a member of GSL since 2008.