Connect

The UVA Cancer Center Wreath Auction is back after a hiatus due to COVID. This year, wreath auctions will occur at the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC) and UVA Cancer Center Augusta.

Team members from across UVA Health have generously donated their time and skill to decorate these amazing holiday wreaths — and you can bid on them here. (Act fast, as bidding closes on Monday, Dec. 5!)

To get this project off the ground, volunteers Haeli Knox and Ahmad Shahid helped the ECCCC with logistics and promotion. Connect recently sat down with them to discuss their studies, careers, volunteerism, and UVA.

What year are you? What are your majors — and why did you choose these majors? What field/careers are you looking to go into after graduating? 

Haeli: I am a fourth-year undergraduate student at UVA, getting a dual degree in biochemistry and Spanish linguistics. I chose these majors because chemistry and Spanish have always been two of my favorite subjects, no matter when I studied them, and they will both help prepare me for my future goals. After graduation, I am planning on applying to medical school where I hope to specialize in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine.

Ahmad: I am a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Virginia. I am pursuing a major in biology and a minor in sociology. I have chosen this field due to my fascination with different organisms and how they develop, function, and influence each other. After graduation, I hope to attend medical school and ultimately wish to become a pediatric cardiologist. 

What made you want to volunteer to help with the cancer center’s wreath auction this year? What are your roles and how are you helping?

Haeli: I am currently a Program Director for UVA’s Madison House Medical Services program, and I oversee two units of nine total volunteers aiding with administrative support and within the boutique, Flourish. This is my first year as a Program Director but my fourth year in volunteering with Madison House. Previously, I have volunteered within the surgical supply unit in the main hospital, and I have also volunteered remotely with Blue Ridge Health District when in-person volunteering was suspended due to COVID-19. This year, I am co-chairing the Wreath Auction with my fellow Program Director, Ahmad, and I am so excited to have this opportunity to give back to the Charlottesville community I’ve grown to love. I primarily oversee communications and the organization of the auction.

Ahmad: After volunteering at the Emily Couric location last year, I understood the impact that small acts of volunteerism can have on patient experiences. After hearing about the wreath auction and its cause, I thought it would be a rewarding way to not only become more involved in the Charlottesville community, but also to create a welcoming environment that fosters the holiday spirit for patients and families. As co-chair of the wreath auction this year, my primary tasks include marketing the wreath auction to the community and coordinating the logistics of implementing this event. 

Do you volunteer in other ways or for other groups? If so, what are they?

Haeli: I volunteer outside of Madison House, most notably at the Charlottesville Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). I started volunteering there in the fall of 2021 and have continued to volunteer weekly ever since. My role there varies, but I primarily care for the cats, making sure they are living in a clean environment and providing them with enrichment and attention. I find it incredibly rewarding to bond with the cats and provide them with some comfort while they are in the shelter, but I especially enjoy seeing them get adopted and knowing they will be loved in their forever home.

Ahmad: Another organization that I volunteer for is Paper Airplanes, a non-profit organization that seeks to educate conflict-affected individuals with courses varying from English to computer science. At Paper Airplanes, I volunteer as a tutor for their English curriculum by teaching Syrian refugees who wish to become proficient English speakers. Additionally, I also assist these students with building their resumes, portfolios, and interview skills.

What do you find most rewarding about volunteerism?

Haeli: For me, I find seeing the impact on other people the most rewarding aspect of volunteering. Already, without the auction having officially begun, I’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction it has garnered. I cannot wait to see all the creative and beautiful wreaths the staff will decorate, and I am extremely excited to see them proudly displayed on the walls of the ECCCC for all to enjoy.

Ahmad: Since middle school, I have always been passionate about giving back to my community and have volunteered at local libraries and hospitals. Through these experiences, I have been able to create meaningful connections with community members and witness the positive impact acts of kindness and compassion can have, regardless of how small. Before attending UVA, I knew that I wanted to recreate the relationship that I had with my community in my hometown, and I hoped to accomplish this by volunteering in the Charlottesville community. 

What do you like best about being a student at UVA?

Haeli: Truthfully, I really can’t pick what I love most about UVA — I have loved every single second of my time here, and while I’m excited to start the next chapter of my life, I am dreading having to say goodbye to UVA. The communities, opportunities, and friends I have had the pleasure of engaging with will not be soon forgotten.

Ahmad: My time at UVA has provided me with many fond memories and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I have met incredible students, professors, and community members that I have learned so much from. The school provides a rich learning experience for students both inside and outside the classroom ranging from conducting research to joining clubs. Additionally, I enjoy all that the greater Charlottesville area has to offer, including hiking and trying different restaurants. 

Is there anything personal you’d like to share?

Haeli: I am from Seattle, WA, and I enjoy kayaking, attending concerts, and cooking. Being so far away from home has really broadened my horizons and allowed me to experience things that are radically different from how I grew up, which I am so grateful for.

Ahmad: My hometown is Woodbridge, Virginia. Some of my hobbies include playing frisbee and spikeball on the lawn, hiking outdoors, managing my fantasy NBA team with my roommates, and closely watching college basketball. I especially look forward to UVA playing this season. Go Hoos!