PSO Survival Guide

Pre-Service Orientation-the beginning of your 46 week journey as a National Health Corps AmeriCorps member.  Two weeks filled with presentation after presentation, icebreaker after icebreaker. PSO may seem like a never ending over flow of information, but some of these tips will help you tackle PSO head on while managing to have some fun!

1. STAY CALM. You have just moved to a new city; you are anxious to make friends and ready to begin your position at your host site. At first the entire experience may be overwhelming, but that’s okay! My biggest advice would be to stay calm and take each day one step at a time. Focus on the information being presented and try not to worry about anything else.  Both the National Health Corps staff and other members are there to support you along the way!

2. BE OPEN. Be open to learning new things, be open to others opinions, and be open to the new experience. Going into PSO with an open mind allowed me to learn much more than what was being presented in each PowerPoint.  Members have had different experiences that allow them to bring a unique perspective on the different topics we discuss. Learn as much as you can not only in PSO, but also throughout your entire journey with the National Health Corps.

3. EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST. Most of us have been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and I completely agree. The days of PSO are lengthy and starting your day off with an energizing meal can help set the tone for the rest of your day. Along with eating a good breakfast I suggest an energizing lunch and snacks for the day. Sitting in a chair all day listening to presentations can be more tiring than you expect, so stay energized! Caffeine is also a must!

4. DON’T BE AFRAID. Do not be afraid to ask questions during PSO. There is an overwhelming amount of information the first few days and it’s important to ask a question when something is unclear. You want to make sure you understand all of your responsibilities as a National Health Corps Americorps member; this will make life much easier once it’s time to begin host site service!

5. GET EXCITED! Being a part of the National Health Corps is an amazing opportunity and each member should be proud to represent the National Health Corps and AmeriCorps. You will learn so much from the experiences you have as a member and that is something to be excited about! Get excited to meet new people. Get excited you get to serve others. Get excited about everything, because time flies by and you want to leave this program knowing you made the most out of the ten and a half month journey.

This blog post was written by NHC FL AmeriCorps member, Kaitlyn Gallagher. 

Kaitlyn serves at I.M. SUlzbacher as a Patient Navigator.