The Volunteer Experience

 Name: Sam-Keny Saint Pre
 Where are you from? Boston, MA
 Are you currently in school? What are you studying? I am no longer in school.
 What is your volunteer position? At BMC, I volunteer as an ambassador in the PACU and as patient  support on the Medical Oncology floor. As an ambassador, I assist patients in navigating the              hospital, particularly those who do not speak English and may need additional support. On the      medical oncology floor, I visit patients’ rooms, offering support and companionship to individuals    undergoing treatment.
 

What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the BMCHS? The staff at BMC is exceptionally welcoming. Everyone I’ve interacted with has been supportive and eager to guide me in providing support to patients. This environment has made it easy for me to stay engaged. One of my most memorable experiences has been meeting a gentleman on the medical oncology floor with whom I played cards weekly during my shifts. He shared how his days were often exhausting, filled with medical interventions, and how much he looked forward to just sitting down to play cards and chat about life outside of his illness. It was a simple activity, but it brought him much joy, which meant a lot to me. I didn’t anticipate having this kind of impact as a volunteer, but BMC has made it possible for me.
What has surprised you most about volunteering at BMCHS? From my very first day, I was struck by the warmth and support of the staff. When I started in the PACU, the nurse manager gave us a tour and explained how each part of the unit contributes to providing excellent patient care. That welcoming attitude wasn’t
just a first-day experience-it's something I've encountered in every interaction since. Furthermore, I've noticed how this culture of support extends to the patients. Many have shared how well they are treated from the moment they walk through the doors. It's a place that cultivates an environment where everyone feels valued.
Tell me about some of the people you have met while volunteering with BMCHS. BMC has exposed me to people from all walks of life. Some patients live just blocks from the hospital, while others travel for hours to receive care. Some come with strong support systems, while others face their health challenges alone. But no matter
their circumstances, I'm always astounded by the resilience of the people I meet. For a few weeks, I met a woman undergoing radiation who would sit in the PACU waiting area. She often spoke about using her experience to raise awareness and help others navigate similar challenges. It was inspiring to see someone facing such a challenging journey while thinking about how she could make things better for others.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at BMCHS? It’s so worth it! There’s so much to learn from the people you interact with, whether it’s patients, staff, or fellow volunteers. BMC is a unique place where people from all backgrounds come together, and you gain a perspective you wouldn’t get anywhere else. So lean in, you’ll get much more out of it than you put in.
What might someone be surprised to know about you? People are usually surprised when I tell them I consider myself an introvert. I enjoy meeting new people and engaging in conversations, but recharge best with quiet time. 

What do you do for fun? I like playing pick-up soccer or going to the gym. I also love finding and learning new piano pieces, though it’s mostly just a never-ending loop of Einaudi pieces.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? I’d want the ability to instantly understand and speak any language, culture included. I would be able to connect with anyone, anywhere, without barriers.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I see myself in medical school, continuing to grow and working toward becoming a physician.