In the heart of Syracuse’s refugee communities, seven SUNY Oswego students discovered the profound impact of connecting education with compassion and service last fall. 

Students in professor Sandy Bargainnier’s HSC 387: "Refugee Wellness" class took on roles that required not only knowledge but also empathy and creativity. By trading traditional book study projects for service learning, they immersed themselves in the lives of refugee families, forging connections and fostering growth in ways that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

The students found that service learning wasn’t just a course requirement; it was a calling. They chose connection over convenience, dedicating themselves to projects that touched lives in profound ways. Whether guiding refugee children through playful math games, teaching English to resettled families or simply listening to stories or resilience, they wove a tapestry of support that bridged cultures and healed hearts.

Helping children flourish

At Destiny African Nation Church, the after-school program overflowed with young voices and energy, as children from refugee families gathered to learn and play. Senior public relations major Jackie Gamlen was struck by the need for more hands to support the program, where one leader, Bonnke Sekarore, managed 30 children, some as young as four. Determined to help, Gamlen jumped in, bringing both structure and creativity to the group.

After noticing a child proudly wearing a vibrant beaded bracelet, Gamlen was reminded of her own love for crafting with beads. Inspired by the moment, she decided to bring necklace and bracelet-making to the after-school program, blending creativity with a Taylor Swift-inspired twist. 

“This semester reminded me of the incredible strength and potential that flourish when people feel supported and valued. Whether it was helping someone with beading or cheering on a soccer match, every moment reinforced the power of community and connection.” – Jackie Gamlen

“We played math games, helped them practice English, and made learning fun,” Gamlen said. The children eagerly chose beads to spell out words like “faith” and “believe,” creating heartfelt gifts for their friends and family. “It was inspiring to see them sharing their creativity and collaborating,” she added.

For Gamlen, the experience went far beyond what she expected. “This semester reminded me of the incredible strength and potential that flourish when people feel supported and valued,” she said. “Whether it was helping someone with beading or cheering on a soccer match, every moment reinforced the power of community and connection.”

Discovering resilience through play

For Val Mayer, a nontraditional student majoring in integrative professional studies, service learning was a way to deepen her lifelong commitment to giving back. Her time with the after-school program became a testament to how small moments of joy could foster resilience and healing.

One of Mayer’s favorite activities involved combining soccer with math games. 

“The kids were competitive and eager to answer questions during our math and soccer games. They didn’t just show up, they gave it their all,” Mayer said. The energy and excitement they brought to the games left a deep impression. “Even small rewards, like scoring a goal or winning a prize, meant so much to them.”

But beyond the activities, Meyar was moved by the children’s strength. Many had fled challenging circumstances, yet here they were, laughing, playing and thriving in a safe space. 

“The kids were just happy to be there. It showed me how much joy and growth come from having a safe and supportive space,” Mayer commented.

Lifelong dedication to change

For Bargainnier, service learning is not just an academic approach, it’s a personal mission. Her journey began in 2013 when her family welcomed a homeless teenager from the Democratic Republic of Congo into their home. That moment of compassion sparked a lifelong commitment to refugee advocacy. “That experience showed me how transformative mentorship and community support can be,” she said.

“Service learning brings education to life. It allows students to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings while making a tangible difference.” – Sandy Bargainnier

Under her guidance, the course has become a powerful bridge between academics and community engagement. Students leave not only with a deeper understanding of global issues but also with the tools to approach them with empathy and leadership. 

“Service learning brings education to life. It allows students to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings while making a tangible difference,” Bargainnier added.

Transforming lives, igniting possibilities

Through the Refugee Wellness course, SUNY Oswego demonstrates its commitment to fostering growth, connection and meaningful change. These students’ efforts, spanning more than 70 hours of service, supported over 50 refugee children and adults through educational and community programs. They created safe havens, sparked creativity and planted seeds of hope.

“This program has been transformative for the students and the community,” Bargainnier reflected. “It’s about more than volunteering. It’s about understanding, empathy and creating lasting change.”

For the students, the experience has been nothing short of life-changing. It’s a reminder that education is not confined to classrooms but lives in forging connections and making a difference. Together, the students embody Oswego’s mission to transform lives and ignite possibilities, proving that even small acts of kindness can ripple out into profound and lasting change.

To learn more about how SUNY Oswego fosters meaningful connections that empower students to make an impact both locally and globally, visit transform.oswego.edu: This site allows visitors to explore programs, service opportunities and the transformative experiences that bring people and communities together.