Thoughtful insights from students about what we're learning as we build SHWI and serve our community.
As a new initiative, every step teaches us valuable lessons about leadership, service, and community impact
Reflection on Initiative Building
When we first conceived SHWI, we had big dreams but limited experience. We've learned that meaningful change doesn't require years of expertise—it requires genuine commitment and the willingness to learn as you go.
Starting with clear, achievable goals has taught us the importance of building a strong foundation. Each conversation with a potential partner, each program outline we develop, and each team meeting brings new insights that shape our path forward.
Reflection on Community Engagement
As we reach out to seniors' homes and immigrant support organizations, we're discovering how health challenges affect people so differently based on their circumstances, language, and access to resources.
These early conversations have deepened our understanding of privilege, barriers, and the profound importance of making health information accessible to everyone. It's not just about sharing knowledge—it's about listening, understanding, and adapting our approach to meet people where they are.
Reflection on Teamwork
Building SHWI has taught us that real impact comes from collective effort. Each team member brings unique strengths—some excel at organization, others at communication, and still others at creative problem-solving.
We've learned to value different perspectives, delegate responsibilities, and support each other through challenges. The initiative is stronger because of our diversity of thought and our commitment to working together toward shared goals.
Reflection on Personal Growth
As we develop mental health literacy programs for others, we've become more aware of our own well-being and the importance of practicing what we promote. Leadership can be stressful, and we're learning to balance our commitment to SHWI with self-care.
This experience has reinforced that advocating for mental health isn't separate from living it. We're committed to creating a culture within SHWI where team members support each other's wellness, not just the wellness of those we serve.
The practical abilities we're gaining through hands-on experience
Learning to convey health information clearly, adapt messaging for different audiences, and communicate effectively across generations and cultures.
Developing systems to track tasks, manage timelines, coordinate volunteers, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Cultivating trust with community partners, maintaining professional relationships, and representing SHWI with credibility.
Navigating challenges creatively, finding solutions when plans don't work out, and adapting to unexpected obstacles.
Investigating health topics thoroughly, finding credible sources, and continuously expanding our knowledge to better serve others.
Managing SHWI responsibilities alongside academics, extracurriculars, and personal well-being—practicing what we preach.
"The most valuable lesson we're learning is that you don't need to have everything figured out to start making a difference. You just need to care deeply and be willing to take the first step."
— SHWI Founding Team
Join SHWI and be part of a learning journey where we support each other, serve our community, and develop skills that will benefit us for life.