Make a positive impact by volunteering for research

ResearchMatch has connected me with a variety of different studies however my favorite one was a study done on the correlation between rhythm and music, and one’s genetics. The trial consisted of me taking an online test which tested my sense of rhythm and musical recall. Then, I got to send a DNA sample so they could correlate my results with my genetics. It was a very interesting study, and they even let me know where I fell musically and rhythmically compared to the rest of the country. It felt good to help out with someone’s research, even if there is no compensation the reward of helping someone else come closer to their research goals is enough!

I became disabled in 2008, and I felt pretty lousy about it for several years, like I couldn’t contribute anything anymore. Then I heard about Research Match and joined in 2014. Since then I have completed surveys online and taken part in telephone and Zoom-based research interviews about everything from chronic pain and its relation to romantic relationships to Covid and its impact on my mental health. I have traveled to two universities to help graduate students with their studies. I have even slept under a weighted blanket and worn a fitness watch to see if those blankets help people with chronic pain sleep better. In other words I feel useful! I feel I still make a difference to students and researchers, doctors and patients like me. Thank you, Research Match!

As an educated Latina, I believe volunteerism should be an ideal, and part of practice in forging a blueprint for Hispanic heritage in American history.