The communication studies department wants you. Or, more specifically, they want what’s inside of you—your blood. On Wednesday, March 10 and Thursday, March 11 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the department will be hosting the biannual Red Cross blood drive, providing Gustavus students a chance to do something that everyone aspires to do: save a life.

“Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood,” Senior Communication Studies Honors Major Ally Pelton said.

Blood is an extremely valuable resource for hospitals, but due to its short shelf life, it can be difficult to come by. The red blood cells last up to 42 days, while platelets can survive for only five days. For this reason, donated blood does not stay in the Midwest area. After it is split into component parts like plasma and platelets, it is used all over the country. A single donation can be used for up to three different people.

“As a department, the faculty, staff and students get excited to donate as well as volunteer because it’s a cause we can all make a difference through,” Senior Communication Studies Major Alex Brakke said.

One reason people avoid donating blood is because of the needles. “[I have] seen students come in to give blood who are terrified of needles. The fact that they volunteer to come in and face a fear that can be terrifying for some is incredibly brave and honorable,” Brakke said.

The blood drive is open to the general student body, but there are some restrictions. If you have been traveling in an area where malaria is found, you are required to wait a year before donating blood. Additionally, if you are currently taking antibiotics for a current infection, you are ineligible to donate. A full list of criteria can be found on the Red Cross’s website at www.redcrossblood.org.

Donors do not need an appointment to donate blood, but they can stop by the blood drive table today if they wish to reserve a spot. The drive will take place in Alumni Hall and more information about donating blood can be found at www.givelife.org.