After I passed the IBLCE exam in 1986, I felt chock full of theory but lacking in clinical skills. What to do ? I called the designated LC at my local hospital (who had certified in '85) and asked if I could volunteer on the post partum unit. She generously said yes, and for the next 18 months I was an officially accredited hospital volunteer. I spent between four and eight hours a week on the unit. At first I accompanied her on rounds and simply observed as she visited each breastfeeding mother. Then she observed me. Finally, I made rounds on my own. I found this experience extremely valuable and recommend it to any new IBCLC as a way of building clinical skills. Beverley Rae, MSW CSW IBCLC Manhasset, NY