From Radio Studio to Operating Theatres: how volunteering led to a life-changing journey

At just 19, one of our young volunteers has already touched many lives and found her own calling in the process.

Aleksandra Jedlinska, one of our Healthcare Support Workers at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, has recently accepted to study medicine at the University of Leeds. Her journey at Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) started when she was 16 beginning with volunteering at Radio Cherwell, one of our volunteer radio stations.

It began with a chance encounter at the Randolph Hotel where Aleksandra was working part-time. There she met Shamin Durrani, ambassador of Radio Cherwell. Her curiosity about Shamin's role sparked a conversation leading to a journey of handing out prizes on a children's radio show to now preparing for medical school.

Since January 2023, Aleksandra has been a vibrant presence on 'The Weekend for Everything Show', a live children's programme broadcast from Oxford Children's Hospital. The show features games like animal noises, trivia, and the yes-or-no challenge, all designed to bring joy to children in hospital. But the impact goes far beyond entertainment.

Aleksandra said: "What's kept me going is the look on the children's faces when we hand out prizes or allow them to look through our 'prize trolley'… it's about helping them forget, even for a moment, where they are and what they’re going through. I found it challenging at times, but extremely rewarding to be there for someone, and their family, during some of their hardest moments in their life."

Earlier this year, Aleksandra launched her own science programme, 'Science and Beyond', where she interviews researchers, healthcare professionals, and even Year 9 students from her former school. She's also created a science-themed creative competition for students, giving them a platform to share their passions and hear their voices on air.

She said: "I learned the ropes of radio under the guidance of Neil Stockton, the chairman of Radio Cherwell, along with a few other members. So, when Neil offered me the chance to start my own programme, I was thrilled. Everyone was very supportive."

Despite juggling two jobs and a demanding application process, she secured a place at the University of Leeds to study medicine. "Volunteering gave me clarity about who I am and what I love…it's helped me grow, build confidence, and make connections I never imagined."

Volunteering didn't just shape Aleksandra's confidence and hone her skills - it also opened doors. Through her work on the children's programme, she met a nurse who encouraged her to apply for the healthcare support worker role as a nursing assistant.

She successfully secured the role and started working on a day surgery ward at the NOC. There, she has gained hands-on experience supporting patients and staff and even had the opportunity to observe complex procedures like hip replacements and spinal surgeries.

She said: "I was planning to take a gap year and wanted more clinical exposure before applying to medical school. This really goes to show that volunteering can give you so many opportunities through the people you meet and the connections you make."

After completing her Care Certificate, Aleksandra is now transitioning to a senior nursing assistant role, a significant step up that reflects her growing clinical skills and commitment to patient care.

Aleksandra's story is a powerful reminder that giving your time can not only change someone else's life, it can also transform your own - from stocking up on toys to producing shows, from comforting families to assisting in surgery, her journey is a testament to that.

She said: "Volunteering has given me a clear definition of who I am, and what I enjoy... Even if you're feeling lost, you'll soon find yourself again. That's the magic of giving your time, it gives something back to you too.

"Find an opportunity that resonates with you. Volunteering will change your life - in the best way."

As Aleksandra prepares to move to Leeds, she plans to continue her radio show remotely and returns to volunteer with the children whenever she's back in Oxford.

Bridget Daly, Voluntary Services Manager at OUH said: "Radio Cherwell is one of our partner organisations based at the Churchill Hospital, run entirely by volunteers and broadcasts in all our Oxford sites.

"Our volunteers come from all ages and backgrounds, each with their own reasons for offering their time and service. Aleksandra's journey is truly inspiring; a reminder that volunteering is not only rewarding but can also open doors to new opportunities. Congratulations to Aleksandra, and best of luck!"

Volunteering - Oxford University Hospitals

Pictured: Aleksandra Jedlinska