Hi!

My name is Karina Freeland and I am so excited to be the co-chair for Freshman Recruitment with my good friend Daniel Wood! We have been working hard all summer to make OLP the best and safest possible experience for all the first-year and transfer students at Syracuse University. I am so excited to meet anyone who is interested in our program, but let me introduce myself a little more by explaining how I became involved with OttoTHON and WHY it continues to have a special place in my heart.

As a first-year student wandering around the involvement fair, it would have been an understatement to say that I was overwhelmed by the hundreds of organizations to join. OttoTHON caught my eye not only because they were the loudest and most enthusiastic group, but because every single person at the stand had a genuine passion for the kids and their community. I immediately knew this organization was a place I would thrive and I was over the moon when I was accepted into the OttoTHON Leadership Program (OLP).

What is OLP?

OttoTHON comes into people’s lives and holds a different meaning for every person. Personally, it began as a community and safe haven during my first few months at Syracuse University. The Ottothon Leadership Program offers an inclusive environment for first-year and transfer students to grow as individuals and within the OttoTHON organization as a whole. OLPs are taught leadership skills as well as strategies for teamwork and bonding while simultaneously teaching them the mechanics of OttoTHON and the stories of the Miracle Kids it supports.

Why do I love OLP?

From the beginning of my time with the program, I fell in love with the genuine atmosphere and caring people that surrounded me. However, by the time I graduated from OLP, I had a greater appreciation for the work done at the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital and OttoTHON as a whole. During the OttoTHON Leadership Program the co-directors will have many instances where they encourage you to develop your WHY. In OttoTHON, your WHY is the reason that you feel connected to the program and what motivates you to raise money for the Miracle Kids. For me, I found my WHY when I met the Miracle Families and understood the magnitude of the efforts put forth by OttoTHON. I fell in love with this organization’s community, but I continue to find new aspects to cherish everyday.

Why is OLP perfect for you?

At this point anyone reading my blog knows that I am FTK (for the kids) for life, however I truly believe that anyone can find a home within OttoTHON. Syracuse University is a big school and it is easy to feel lost or disconnected from the rest of the student body. OttoTHON is a completely inclusive environment that prides itself on making a home for students on campus and making the lives of others better in the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital. Also, during these times it is paramount that we put the safety of our school, this community and ourselves at the highest priority. The OLP experience will give you a safe environment to find a home at Syracuse and find a group of friends that will last you a lifetime.

OttoTHON's Leadership Program (OLP)