​I completed the volunteer program at Alta Bates over this past summer, and it was quite a rewarding experience. During my time at Alta Bates, I volunteered at the volunteer department for my first 100 hours and the family care center/postpartum nursing department for my second 100 hours. In the volunteer center, I interviewed prospective volunteers, compiled files with applicant information, and answered emails and phone calls regarding the volunteer program. In the family care center, I completed rounds for the four wards of the nursing department, assisting new mothers by providing food, beverages, and various care supplies to them. I also helped the nurses prepare rooms for future patients, set up blood-draw kits, and discharge new mothers from the hospital.

While Alta Bates is a relatively easier way to get clinical experience than other competitive programs, the application process might seem a little daunting and confusing. If you’re planning to apply to the Alta Bates volunteer program, be sure to check this link (http://www.altabatessummit.org/how/volunteer-health-clearance.html) to ensure that you have all the necessary immunizations to volunteer. Once you’re a volunteer, you’ll be able to receive annual TB tests and flu shots for free at the Alta Bates employee health fairs.
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Once you have all your required immunizations, send an email to absmcstudentvol@sutterhealth.org telling them that you’re interested in volunteering with Alta Bates. They will email you with all of the things you need to do, including submitting an online application (https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?AP=1441013068), completing a background check, and reading the PowerPoint orientation packet. Once you complete all of the requirements, you’ll be scheduled for a group interview where you’ll be able to meet other prospective volunteers and sign up for a shift in an available department. The available departments (lobby desk, volunteer department, gift shop) depend on when your group interview is, as volunteers enter and leave the program throughout the year. Once the interview is complete, you’ll be a registered volunteer with Alta Bates!

If you’re looking for clinical experience, Alta Bates is a great way to interact with patients, nurses, and even doctors, as well as see what it feels like to work in a hospital. The many departments available to volunteer in, ranging from surgery to ICU to postpartum nursing, also allow you to explore a wide range of departments within the hospital. Don’t pass up on this great opportunity!