For Emma Janecek ’22, ’26 OTD, service isn’t a side project - it’s at the heart of who she is. Whether teaching English in Mexico or volunteering in Turkey and Uzbekistan, Janecek has made it her mission to build connections across cultures. Her global service experiences have shaped not only her worldview but also the compassionate approach she brings to her future career in occupational therapy.
In 2022 she spent five months in Ticumán, Morelos, Mexico, where she taught English. This journey taught her the skills needed to live in another country and the process of immersion into a new culture. She also experienced new aspects of the volunteering process, such as participating in a healthy and efficient leadership system.
“I got to see how a team should work. I saw leaders serving those under them, listening to people’s thoughts or experiences or concerns, and always being responsive to it. And I got to see teamwork between individuals who have different roles in serving God,” Janecek said.
One of the biggest challenges that Janecek faced as an international volunteer was the language barrier. It was sometimes difficult to understand the needs of the populations she was working with. Despite this, Janecek and her fellow volunteers were able to find workarounds by using hand motions, repetition, and other skills that helped alleviate some communication barriers.
“When I was in Mexico, I did have a Spanish background which was super helpful. I could have conversations and connect with others. But when I was in Turkey or Uzbekistan, I didn't have that ability to connect with the locals as easily,” Janecek said.
Janecek is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at St. Ambrose and is set to graduate in 2026. Volunteering is her passion, and she’s certain the skills she’s learned will transfer into her future career. She loves occupational therapy
because it allows her to serve others along their healing journey.
“I would love to be a cross-cultural occupational therapist in the future. I really appreciate the opportunity to connect with international families here, connect with international people in their countries, and learn important skills about being on a team,” Janecek said. Janecek believes that volunteering and serving the community is a positive experience both for those who serve and those benefiting from the service. She encourages others to find ways to get involved.
“I would say it's worth a sacrifice. It's important for us to see outside of ourselves and recognize that other individuals don't have the same life experience as us and simply being a friend to someone could be the best service you could give them,” Janecek said.
