A Journey of Dedication: My Pueblo Science Volunteer Experience
Eleven years ago, my life as a science teacher was a daily struggle. It was my first summer as an educator, and I was just trying to find my footing. Little did I know that this would mark the beginning of an incredible journey with Pueblo Science, an institution that would deeply influence my teaching career.
The turning point came when Pueblo Science introduced their RISE program in Davao City. It was a game-changer, not just for me but for countless educators in the region. The knowledge, support, and inspiration I gained from that experience were immeasurable. From that moment on, I made it a personal commitment to be a part of every Pueblo Science event in Davao. Over time, Pueblo Science began to feel like a second family, and I eagerly anticipated their arrival, ready to explore new experiments and activities.
My dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Ms. Mayrose, the driving force behind Pueblo Science, soon recognized my passion and commitment. She could spot me in the crowd, acknowledging me as an avid participant. This acknowledgment inspired me to take a step further. I started bringing along my fellow teachers, sharing my experiences and knowledge with them. It was Ms. Mayrose who once mentioned that the true purpose of the RISE program was to teach and share what we learned with our students, and I wholeheartedly embraced this mission by sharing it with my fellow teachers and the community. It’s all about giving back, and I believed in their cause and mission wholeheartedly.
Becoming a Pueblo Science volunteer had always been a dream, one I thought was out of reach. Meeting scientists and teachers from Canada and Luzon had always left me starstruck. I held them in high regard, but deep down, I longed to be a part of their world as a volunteer. Then, the day I had dreamt of arrived when the director of Pueblo Science, Ms. Mayrose Salvador, contacted me and asked if I would be willing to volunteer. Without a moment’s hesitation, I exclaimed, “Yes!” It was a day that felt like receiving a prestigious award, a moment of pure joy and fulfillment.
Becoming a volunteer allowed me to witness the sheer passion that drives the people behind Pueblo Science. Their love for science and teaching is profound, making any challenges that come their way seem like mere bumps in the road. They remind me that, no matter how strong the storm, our dedication to education can weather it all. My journey as a Pueblo Science volunteer has been a rewarding and transformative experience. It’s a testament to the power of dedication and the impact that one person can have on the lives of others. Pueblo Science has become an integral part of my life, and I look forward to many more years of collaboration and learning. To my fellow science teachers, I extend a warm invitation to join the Pueblo Science Teachers’ Camp. You never know, you might be the next volunteer to share your experiences and continue the chain of inspiration.
About the Author
Cristina Pusta is currently the Senior High School Department Principal at Brokenshire College - Torril. Cristina's influence extended far beyond her immediate classroom. She became a guiding light, motivating hundreds of students to pursue science and engineering courses in University. Her teachings led to the creation of multiple hydraulic robotic contest at her school, where students designed various applications, including claw machines and garbage sorters.
Cristina originally published this blog here: https://medium.com/@bctshsprincipal/a-journey-of-dedication-my-pueblo-science-volunteer-experience-bacee1f3f36d