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This semester, the McConnell Scholars participated in what has become a traditional service event: Project Warm. This annual event allows Scholars to go out into the Louisville community and help weatherize homes. My group this year consisted of Abeer Sidker, Jonathan Michael and me. We started the Saturday by visiting an elderly lady who needed help covering her 7 windows with plastic to keep her heat from escaping. I truly enjoyed the time we were able to spend with this woman; she had the sweetest dogs and cats that never hesitated to greet us as we entered each new room. After we finished at her home, we visited another woman who needed us to cover 8 windows. The time passed quickly as we discussed our college majors, hometowns, and UofL sports with the woman. I felt blessed to spend my Saturday helping two very deserving women.
I absolutely love the service portion of our program. It allows us to give back to the community of Louisville and the University of Louisville, which have both given so much to all of us as students. Each community service project I participate in allows me to make connections and form bonds with places and people in Louisville. Service is one of my favorite aspects of the McConnell Program.
Janna Imel, of Greeup County, Ky., is a junior McConnell Scholar at the University of Louisville. She is studying psychology and political science.