While most college students are busy dividing their time between studying and partying, Megan Peterson is busy using her spare time to help others.
In recognition of her ‘oustanding commitment to community service throughout her college career? at Saginaw Valley State University, the 2001 Oxford High School graduate received the ‘Heart and Soul Award? at a special ceremony in East Lansing Saturday.
‘I’m very honored,? said Peterson, the daughter of Bob and Sally Peterson. ‘I wasn’t expecting this.?
The award was given to Peterson by the Michigan Campus Compact, a state-level non-profit organization that promotes the education and commitment of Michigan college students to be civically-engaged citizens through the creation and expansion of academic, co-curricular and campus-wide opportunities for community service, service-learning and civic engagement.
Peterson called the award a ‘bonus,? noting the motivation for her community service springs from her heart, not a desire for accolades.
‘I don’t expect anything in return,? Peterson said.
Peterson was selected for the award from a nomination pool of more than 200 students from colleges and universities across the state.
Peterson is the Vice President of Service for Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity that does volunteer work around the community. Her job is to set up service projects for the fraternity.
From visiting and socializing with senior citizens to providing positive role models for young kids ‘to look up to,? Peterson’s volunteer work touches many different aspects of the community she lives in.
‘I just enjoy helping others,? she said. ‘It’s a wonderful experience. I enjoy meeting new people.?
Peterson said it was her membership in the National Honor Society at Oxford High that ‘got me started? in community service.
‘When I got to college, I wanted to continue,? she said.
Currently finishing her junior year at Saginaw Valley State University, Peterson plans to enter the field of elementary education where she can continue helping young children and being a role model for them.