Kyrie Jensen is a freshman at Oregon State University.  Instead of having a traditional job to make extra cash for school, she spends her time volunteering at the local animal shelter.         

She initially became involved when she met a classmate who was involved in the program already.  It’s not as stressful as retail, and it’s much more rewarding to know your helping people and animals that need it, according to Kyrie.  She previously worked in retail at ShopKo in Logan, Utah.         

When asked why she chose volunteering at a shelter instead of working in a store or restaurant like other students in her class, she said, It just feels better to do something that actually means something than working to pay off student loans.  That’s why I’m in school now!  I’ll worry about money when I graduate.        

She has now been volunteering for five months, and even though she doesn’t get paid to work there, she doesn’t see herself leaving anytime soon.