I donated plasma for about two years when I was in college. It's not a bad rap. The center I donated at had TV's set up so you could watch movies while you donated. You could do homework or read but they don't let you fall asleep. The first time takes a while because they have to do a few tests and possibly even a physical (look up and cough!). After the first time they simply weigh you and take a pin-prick blood sample to test for protein.

They use a pretty hefty needle for donating because a small one would make the process last even longer (it lasts about an hour as it is). It's probably 16 guage or so. Yes, it gives you scars, pretty much for life. I've still got mine and it's been 2-3 years since I've donated. At first it's a little painful when they stick you but you get desensitized after a few times. If you have a problem with needles I wouldn't do it. But if you're not a candyass you'll have no problem.They withdraw your blood, centrifuge it to remove the plasma, mix the remains with saline and pump it back into you. It sounds a little freaky but it isn't that bad IMO.

Try it a few times and see what you think. Some respond well to it, some don't. I never had any problem. I'd do it again if it were worth my time. Now that I have a real job and I'm not a poor starving student it's not really practical. Also, if you're fat it's a pretty good way to loose weight . Every time you donate they take an average of about 1000 calories worth of proteins and sugars from your bloodstream.