One memorable day during my NYPIRG internship, I was tasked with participating in a campus event where student project leaders like me had the opportunity to set up booths in the campus library. The goal was to engage with fellow students interested in our respective topics. For me, the focus was on the public health campaign, a subject that held immense significance. The event was filled with a mix of excitement, challenges, and valuable mentorship opportunities.
The event took place in a room within the campus library, and it was designed as a gathering point for students seeking information on our various topics. To make the event appealing, there were refreshments, food, drinks, pizza, and snacks. My fellow interns, who shared the passion for their chosen topics, were also present. It was an enriching experience to see like-minded individuals come together to create an environment of shared knowledge and activism.
The event’s primary challenge was attracting students through the door. We had put effort into promoting the event by phonebanking the day before, attempting to spark interest among the student body. As a last ditch effort, we even advertised the allure of pizza to entice those with a craving for a quick bite. Our ultimate aim was to have attendees not only enjoy the refreshments but also engage with the important message of the public health campaign.
In terms of attendance, it wasn’t a massive success. Only three individuals ventured into the event room. Two of them swiftly grabbed some pizza and made a quick exit, perhaps drawn by the promise of a meal. However, one person stood out. They stayed throughout the entire event, genuinely engaged in the conversation, and even extended their support by helping us clean up at the end. This lone participant’s dedication served as a reminder that impactful interactions could occur even in small numbers.
During the event, I had the privilege of interacting with Project Coordinators (PCs) from other chapters within the SUNY/CUNY systems. One of them, the PC from Queens College, left a lasting impression. She brought a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the table. Her dedication was evident as she participated in marches outside for various events, shadowed a prominent politician’s schedule, and joined a group of individuals who followed the politician everywhere, challenging them and the laws they represented.
In a way, the Queens College PC, along with the other PCs and a senior intern present, served as mentors in the field of activism and change. Their experiences were invaluable, and their commitment to fighting for change was a source of inspiration. I realized that there was much to learn from those who had walked the path of advocacy and who continued to push boundaries.
In conclusion, the NYPIRG event was a day of both challenges and learning experiences. It reinforced the importance of persistence and the value of mentorship from those with more experience in the field. Despite the modest turnout, it was a day that reminded me of the significance of our efforts in advocating for change, especially in the realm of public health.
(Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash)
