On Monday, September 9, Kean University and the New Jersey/New York Blood Services joined each other in the act of giving blood to those in need. From 11am to 5pm, students were able to donate blood in the Miron Student Center, Room 228. Participants were welcomed to light refreshments like water, apple juice, chips, Oreos, and pretzels, after giving blood before resuming their normal activities and schedules. For many students, the unselfish act of donating blood is just another way for them to show compassion and kindness towards society, and for others, donating blood has a much more sentimental meaning.  

Olivia Handy-Nemeth, an Education major and junior from Somerset, explained why she decided to give blood.  

“So, my dad was severely injured a couple years ago, and he lost a lot of blood. So ever since then, I’ve been donating blood just to help give back and thank the people who helped him.”  

Kate Budsock, a Psychology major and junior from Cranford, explained that she is a universal donor and as a result, she enjoys participating in the blood services.  

“I just like that I’m able to help a lot of people, even the ones I don’t know that well.” 

Students like Emily Lari, sophomore, and Business Management major from North Bergen, have donated multiple times when the Blood Services have come to Kean University.  

“I thought it was very important to save a life. I did this last semester, and I just want to help save lives and help everyone as much as possible.” 

Robert Septon, a Comp Science and Engineering major and freshman from Springfield, explained why he got involved in the Blood Drive. 

“Well, I’m O positive and O positive is a very very helpful blood type to donate because it helps O positives, B positives, A positives, and AB positives. So, I thought it would be helpful to donate.” 

He then expressed what it meant to him to give blood. 

“Well, if I’m able to donate, and other people can’t donate or need the blood, it’s good for me to just give because I have more than I need.” 

As the first blood drive of the semester, the event successfully brought students together for a meaningful cause. We look forward to continued participation and hope to see even more students donate and volunteer in future drives to make a lasting impact on the community. Kean University’s involvement with Blood Services highlights its commitment to helping others and exemplifies compassion and kindness within the community.