Supporting survivors as a volunteer
February 19, 2024 - Shae Eckles
Student Spotlight: Noah Scudder
Noah Scudder (he/him) is a senior from Troy, MI, and volunteers as a crisis advocate for MSU Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention (SACI) Team. He is majoring in international relations, focusing on security studies and municipal governance. Noah is also a JMC student senator and a finance assistant at Constellation Cat Cafe.
What has been your favorite class/professor at Madison and why?
My favorite class has been MC 492: Senior Seminar in International Relations with Professor Aronoff. The small class size of a senior seminar allowed for open discussions on tough topics, where you were encouraged to voice your own beliefs and opinions. Professor Aronoff also did an exceptional job at facilitating guest speakers from across the globe, including Madison alumni, outside professors, NGO (non-government organization) representatives and even diplomatic officials.
How did you get involved with MSU Center for Survivors?
I began volunteering with the MSU Center for Survivors during my sophomore year. I’ve always felt a sense of reward when helping others in times of need, so was drawn to this position’s ability to directly help those in crisis. It was also my first year on-campus due to COVID-19, and I was looking for a volunteer group to meet new friends and feel more connected to my new community.
How has your time in Madison influenced your work with Center for Survivors?
Madison has taught me how to advocate for others – a skill which can be much more difficult than advocating for your own interests or beliefs. Solving the needs of others can only occur through first recognizing their unique experiences and identities. Madison has also motivated me to scrutinize the barriers in our systems of justice which too often dissuade survivors from seeking accountability.
What advice would you give to students who are interested in volunteering with MSU Center for Survivors?
I can confidently say that joining the Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention Team was the most rewarding decision I made at MSU. For survivors in crisis, knowing that they have someone to support them (even during the middle of the night) is monumental. By working as a crisis advocate to make a positive impact in the lives of others, MSU Center for Survivors has made a greatly positive impact on my own life.
What is the most important takeaway from your experiences with MSU Center for Survivors?
One of the most important lessons I learned from the Center for Survivors was realizing
the power of simply listening to a survivor. Allowing a survivor to speak without fear of judgment or disbelief allows them to begin the process of reclaiming their identity. For someone who has had their voice taken from them, showing the simple respect of active listening is greatly impactful.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I am currently looking for employment! I am hoping to get a job in the policy sector where I can make a positive impact in my community, state and country. If you are curious to learn more about my academic and professional experiences, I am always open to new connections on LinkedIn!