As college students, we are often in a tight financial situation where we are not able to donate to anyone. We are more likely to wish for donation from others.

However it seems that we often overlook the most simple donation out there: blood.

Unlike money, clothing, foods, or household items, giving blood literally doesn’t cost you a penny. Contrary to what some people believe in, blood is in need every day, everywhere.

According to the American Red Cross, more than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day. That is roughly twice the number of students here at El Camino, and there is doubt whether even half of them will step up to donate blood.

Giving blood only requires four, simple steps: medical history review, physical check, donation, and a rest. Why neglect such an easy procedure? Medical history review asks simple questions such as past of serious illness, tattoos, and trips outside of the country.

Afraid of needles? Sure. But in the age of 2015, I’m very sure that everyone has had at least one vaccination shot before. Giving blood is much similar to that sense: the pain only lasts for a moment and you will not feel a thing after that.

Too busy? Of course you’re busy. A lot of college students have a lot of things going on. Work, family stuff, and most importantly, school. College students should prioritize their schoolwork first and foremost, and there is nothing wrong with that. But are you really that busy that you can’t dedicate an hour or two of your life throughout the whole week? When the lines are short, it would not even take an hour sometimes.

Don’t want to feel weak? Nobody wants to feel weak. But know this one thing: giving a pint of blood has little to no effect to an average, healthy adult body. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, your body constantly makes new blood and will replenish within 24 hours of donating.

Disregarding the hour of your time and the pint of blood that you donate, there is nothing to lose when you give blood. Why not give back to the world when you have so much to spare?

And let’s not forget perhaps the biggest benefit of giving blood here at El Camino – you will get a free pint of ice cream coupon that is available for Baskin Robbins.