Vikram Seshadri is a third-year in the School of Engineering and Applied Science majoring in biomedical engineering. Vikram is the program director for Madison House's new program, "The Gym," a member of HELPline's outreach committee, and also works as a mentor for Autism Allies. He's also an Eagle Scout!
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED?
Personally, I have always believed that it is important to give back to a community that has helped me grow and mature as a person. Here at Charlottesville, I have been able to explore a variety of great fields, learn a crazy amount, and further my personal goals of becoming a surgeon one day! Accordingly, I find volunteering is probably the best way that I can think of to give back to the community that has already given me so much in return! Being able to leave an impact on a place that has given me so much in return is why I’m proud to participate in the various volunteering organizations with which I work.
WHAT HAS BEEN MOST REWARDING?
Honestly, there is nothing more gratifying than being able to make someone smile. This past semester, I have been able to work with Jacob Kaminer and our community partners at The Gym in Charlottesville to grow and foster a budding Special Athletes Program that enables students with various disabilities to come and work out in a judgement-free zone. When I see them working at Newcomb Hall or at the football games, and they run up to me to give me a big hug or a high five, it is extremely gratifying.
WHAT'S YOUR #COMMUNITYCOMMITMENT FOR NEXT YEAR?
I am working with some students at the med school to spearhead a new organization called, "Athletic Inclusivity for those with Special Needs (AISN)." This program will focus on expanding the efforts of various recreational therapy communities to bring out and enable the special needs community! In addition, I’m hoping to grow and expand The Gym volunteers so that we can start doing even more awesome community events and really expand the breadth of our impact.