National Honor Society (NHS) a West High club with an important mission. NHS aims to use service to improve life at West and in Utah’s greater community. Students in NHS organize and complete service projects that help fellow students, teachers, and community members. To learn more about NHS, I talked to one of West High’s NHS officers, Kalina Manova:

1. Why did you get involved in NHS?

“I’ve been volunteering regularly since I was in middle school, but had never done anything school-based [and] hadn’t volunteered much outside the specific realms of activities I had become accustomed to. After joining Key Club during my sophomore year, my eyes were opened to how essential [and] beneficial service can be, even in just Salt Lake. I also realized how fulfilling it is to do community service while accompanied by friends.”

1. What’s the biggest thing that NHS has accomplished so far this year?

“This year has been a bit tough because of COVID, so I wouldn t say that there’s one project that could be considered our ‘best,’ but there are definitely a lot of smaller-scale service projects that we’ve organized that have made an impact. One that stands out to me [is] our partnership with the after-school tutoring program at West. It’s fulfilling to help our community firsthand […] witnessing someone grasp a concept that you helped teach them is very motivating. I’m really glad that we’ve been able to carry this [partnership] out.”

1. Why is NHS and its mission important

“NHS is unique, as it [doesn’t limit members] to the volunteering opportunities that we set up. It also encourages students to reach out into their communities and do projects elsewhere. Although it’s likely that some students are only doing so for the sake of completing hours, I’m glad that we’ve been able to expand our reach. Service adds up. Regardless of the intent [behind it], it’s encouraging to see students aid the Salt Lake community.”

1. What does NHS have planned for the rest of the year?

“As of right now, specific service projects are still up in the air because of the pandemic. Regardless of what may happen, we’re hopeful that we can finish the year strong and see members complete all their hours!”

1. How can students get involved with NHS?

“It’s never too late to sign up for NHS! If you’re interested, you can email our supervisor Ms. Thompson ([email protected]). However, service isn’t bound to a club. If you’re interested in volunteering—[with] NHS or not—we encourage it.”

Service is a great way to help those around you and enrich your own life. If you want to find volunteering opportunities here at West or get in touch with other people who have a passion for community service, NHS is the club for you!