Students speak at Science Abroad lecture

Jacob Zitterkopf and Ashley Maxon, two CSC students, gave a presentation to a good turnout Nov. 4 as part of the Science Abroad lecture series.

The two traveled to Argentina with an organization called Projects Abroad. The organization sends out students to get experience in countries across the world.

Zitterkopf explained that he plans to become and oral surgeon, while Maxon said she would like to become a general surgeon. Both got experience working in their future fields while in Argentina.

Zitterkopf volunteered at the Hospital San Roque, the Hospital Pediatrico Del Nino Jesus, and the Hospital Del Ninos. The first two allowed him to do dentistry work, while the Hospital Del Ninos allowed him to watch more general surgeries.
Maxon also volunteered at the Hospital Del Ninos, where she got to assist in surgeries.

Both said that although they did get to do a lot more than they could volunteering in an American hospital, they were asked to only watch most of the time, rather than assist.

The two also volunteered in orphanages, helping paint the deteriorating walls.

Zitterkopf also brought toothbrushes and toothpaste to the kids in the orphanage. He had to teach them how to use the toothbrushes, and explained that it was amazing how he had to teach people something that we take for granted in America.

Maxon and Zitterkopf also volunteered at a church called the Capa de leche. They helped make and serve bread to underprivileged children who often didn’t get other meals.

Both explained that they had very difficult goodbyes. Maxon said that she was sad for a while after getting home. They both said they plan to stay in contact with the people they met, as they are people they could remain friends with the rest of their lives.