Testimonials from Chapter Members After a Clinic Trip

Logan Kucharski '28

What was your favorite experience from the clinic?
My favorite experience from the clinic was learning how to measure the eye pressure of patients using a handheld tonometer. My role was in vision pre-testing and I got trained on how to use the tonometer and then I was able to measure the eye pressures of patients. As someone who is bothered by having things close to my eye it was awesome to learn different techniques to make the measurement as quick and comfortable for the patient. Through this, I was able to interact a lot with the patients and heard a lot of fascinating stories!

How would you describe the environment at a RAM Clinic?
I would describe the environment at a RAM clinic as uplifting and energizing. When you arrive at the clinic at 5:00 AM you tend to feel zapped, but you will be instantly energized by the hospitality of the host group, the excitement that radiates from other volunteers, and the patients’ appreciation of RAM’s services.

What was your favorite RAMily moment?
My favorite RAMily moment was Saturday night as a whole. After the clinic, we went to a nearby overlook in Breaks Interstate Park, also known as “The Grand Canyon of the South”, and enjoyed the breathtaking view. Then, we went back to our cabins, made a campfire, and enjoyed S’mores while watching the UVA football game. After the fire went out, we relaxed by stargazing. The sky was so bright and we even were able to see a shooting star!

Would you want to do another RAM Clinic again? Why/Why not?
I would definitely want to be a part of another RAM clinic. I had so much fun at the clinic and made so many memories. It was super cool to get close with the other members of the chapter and the scenery in and around Grundy was beautiful. Also, talking to patients of a very different background was truly mind opening and it was very rewarding to be able to help them get the care they deserve.


Anonymous '27

What was your favorite experience from the clinic?
My favorite experience from the Grundy Clinic was returning to Southwestern Virginia to serve a community I’ve been connected to since elementary school. Growing up, I traveled to and played against Grundy in Little League and high school sports, so having the opportunity to return home and to volunteer on behalf of the RAM@UVA chapter was incredibly meaningful. I loved reconnecting with familiar faces at the clinic, whether that be through local providers I had established connections with or former high school classmates who were also volunteering under their respective colleges, and seeing how our shared commitment to helping others brought us together again. It was a full-circle moment that reminded me why I volunteer with RAM and remain passionate about serving rural, underserved communities.

How would you describe the environment at a RAM Clinic?
The environment at a RAM Clinic is incredibly welcoming and full of energy! In the supportive environment, I enjoyed meeting other volunteers at the clinic, hearing the stories of patients who traveled to the clinic, forming new friendships, and also strengthening the bonds I had already built with members of our RAM@UVA chapter. It’s a special place to be on a weekend, surrounded by volunteers, providers, and community members who genuinely care about making a difference and providing the best possible care to every patient who walks through the clinic doors. 

What was your favorite RAMily moment?
My favorite RAMily moments from the Grundy Clinic trip consisted of the times our group bonded outside of the clinic, through watching the sunset over a scenic overlook, building a fire and making smore’s in the wilderness, stargazing under the night sky, cheering on our football team to a victory in our cabin we stayed in, and sharing both funny and meaningful conversations during the long car rides there and back. These moments reminded me of how truly special our RAM@UVA community is and that the organization is more than just about volunteering; it’s about forming new relationships and friendships while building an extended family grounded in kindness, teamwork, and compassion for others. 

Would you want to do another RAM Clinic again? Why/why not?
Yes! I enjoyed having the opportunity to stay connected and volunteer with underserved, rural communities that mirror my own and to unite under the shared principle of service alongside other college students, volunteers, and providers from across the country who are passionate about improving access to medical, dental, and vision care. Although the clinic days are long and begin early in the morning, the meaningful service, experiences, and sense of purpose gained from being there make it all worthwhile. Experiences like this remind me why I volunteer with RAM, am pursuing a healthcare career, and inspire me to one day return to a RAM clinic as a provider, continuing to serve the communities that have shaped me.