At Conversations to Remember, we’re continually inspired by the volunteers who give their time, energy, and compassion to brighten the lives of seniors. Among these dedicated individuals is Christina Tonks!
A 2024 graduate of The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Christina earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Her college years were marked by deep involvement both inside and outside the classroom – serving as President of the Chemistry Honor Society, Vice President and later President of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), and working as a peer tutor, peer mentor, orientation leader, and health and wellness educator. She was also an undergraduate researcher, with her project consisting of synthesizing cyclic peptide compounds with potential medical applications in preventing thrombosis.
Now in a gap year, Christina is expanding her experience by completing a medical assistant certification course, which is giving her greater insight into the clinical side of healthcare. At the same time, she’s considering pursuing a PhD, inspired by her love of science and her growing interest in drug design. “My plan was always medical school,” she reflected, “but I realized through courses like medicinal chemistry and chemical biology how much I love research. Now I’m exploring how I might blend patient care with scientific discovery.”
Christina first discovered Conversations to Remember while serving as vice president of AMSA at TCNJ. After receiving an outreach email, she immediately recognized the value of the program, both for seniors in need of companionship and students like herself. “I thought it would be a perfect opportunity, especially for pre-health students. It helps shift your focus away from yourself and allows you to connect meaningfully with someone else.”
She vividly recalls her very first call. The senior she was paired with had a joy for life that left a lasting impression on her. She recalls that he was always so enthusiastic and full of gratitude. Even while living with dementia, he would reflect on his life with such warmth, saying things like, “I can’t believe how blessed I’ve been.” Christina states that these interactions made her think about how important it is to appreciate the present.
That call was just the beginning of a truly special friendship. The senior she was paired with shared words that Christina will never forget: “I’m so glad you’re interested in so many different things. It makes you someone who brings happiness to everyone you meet.” Christina was deeply touched. “I always looked forward to our conversations. It never felt like volunteering – it felt like catching up with a friend.”
One of the most meaningful parts of Christina’s experience has been the sense of community that exists among the volunteers themselves. “Not only have I built meaningful connections with the seniors, but I’ve also formed strong friendships with other volunteers,” she said. “We all look forward to the calls – not just for the seniors, but also because we enjoy connecting as a group.”
In addition to her weekly virtual visits, Christina now helps train new volunteers through mock calls. “I love preparing new volunteers and helping them feel confident. It’s fulfilling to know that the guidance I give might help someone else build the kind of relationship I’ve had.”
Reflecting on her experience, Christina believes the program benefits everyone involved. For the seniors, it brings companionship and cognitive engagement. For the volunteers, it builds empathy, communication skills, and emotional awareness. “I’ve learned how to listen better, how to navigate sensitive topics, and how to be fully present with someone,” Christina states.
When asked what advice she would give to someone considering joining, Christina offered this: “Don’t be afraid to open up. Sometimes people worry that what they have to say isn’t interesting, but the seniors genuinely care. The most important thing is to be focused on making them feel heard and comfortable. That’s what makes the conversations so special.”
Christina’s story is a reminder that giving your time – just an hour a week – can lead to powerful, lasting connections. Her impact on the program, the seniors, and her fellow volunteers continues to grow, and we are so grateful to have her as part of the Conversations to Remember family.
