My experience at USO Vicenza taught me a lot about myself, the military community, and the work force. I learned head on the difficulties of time management and the meaning of improvisation. We had to improvise a lot and just go with it, especially pertaining to Taco Tuesday and Troop Lunch. I learned how much the USO actually does for the military community and what it takes to see USO’s agenda through. We worked together as a team (Lisa, Rebecca, Nicole, Bree, and myself), accomplishing all the tasks that needed to be done and made the USO center run efficiently.
Working at USO Vicenza also allowed me to improve my people and communication skills. I learned to deal with all types of people, the nice and the not so nice patrons of the USO. Working alongside of the different levels of the military community, whether dealing with other managers, employees from the Vicenza community, or the U.S. Army Garrison, the USO was always proficient in their tasks. I learned that everyone has to pull their weight for planning to work. The USO relies heavily on their volunteers and when they don’t do their part, the USO’s job becomes a lot harder. Lisa, Rebecca, Bree, Nicole, and I would pick up the slack and look after the center. We succeeded, but it seemed to be asking a lot from such a small group.
USO Vicenza also allowed me to gain leadership experience. I was often in charge of the center and the front desk. This is a big responsibility and I was pleased that Lisa, Rebecca, Nicole, and Bree trusted me. I took my responsibilities seriously and made sure I never let them down. This experience made me realize my capabilities as a person and helped prepare me to join the workforce after college. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work at the USO Vicenza center. I am an army brat and being able to actually work at the USO and help the military community was a dream come true.
Ashley Zimmers, International Relations and Global Politics, 2017