My Top 10 Tips for Future Pueblo Science RISE Volunteers
I honestly feel a bit old writing this. In my mid-thirties, my back and knees have started sending me emails with subject lines like, "URGENT: Please sit down." My first volunteer gig with Pueblo Science feels like it happened several lifetimes ago. Since then, I've changed jobs and apartments a couple of times, gained a few (okay, more than a few) pounds, and gone up two shirt sizes. But through it all, I've been incredibly thankful to stay connected with this amazing group.
And we’ve come to a startling realization: we can’t hog all the fun and learning forever. We need more young, vibrant, and spry people to join us before our knees give out for good! If you’re thinking about volunteering, here are the top 10 things I’ve learned over the past decade.
1. Prepare to Become a STEM Sorcerer. Your main mission is to teach and facilitate activities. This isn't just about reading from a script; it’s about becoming a master of your craft. Read up on the lessons, add your own personal flair, and don’t be afraid to ask seasoned volunteers for their best tricks and troubleshooting tips. You will also find yourself performing "science magic" tricks for the opening and closing ceremonies. We have a bank for it but don't hesitate to share your own.
2. You are not alone,We are here for you-
A day before your big event, double-check your resources. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your fellow volunteers or hosts. Whether you need extra supplies or just a second pair of hands, everyone is ready to jump in. We're all in this together, and a little teamwork can turn a chaotic moment into a smooth-sailing success.
3. Know Your Audience- A little bit of personalization goes a long way. If you’re presenting to a local crowd, adding a few translated phrases to your slides can make a huge difference. And if you’re speaking to a group of teachers, offer suggestions on how they can challenge their own students. If your audience is students, be ready for anything—they’ll ask you questions about the science, your life, and everything else under the sun. A smile and a few well-timed jokes are your best secret weapons.
4. The First Run Is Always the Longest
Don’t get discouraged if things don’t go perfectly the first time. The initial run of an activity will always take longer as you get a feel for the rhythm and troubleshoot on the fly. It's a rite of passage for every new volunteer, so embrace the learning curve.
5. Be Ready to Learn, Not Just Teach-You might think you know it all, but Pueblo Science will prove you wrong. I recently taught robotics for the first time and had a blast. It turns out I wouldn't have dreaded coding so much back in the day if it had been introduced to me the way Pueblo Science does it. This experience will challenge you and teach you new things about yourself and the world around you.
6. Become an Inspiration (No Pressure!)-As a volunteer, you’re not just a teacher—you're a role model. Prepare a short introduction about yourself and the field you work in. Sharing your journey can inspire participants to pursue careers in STEM. Your personal story can be the spark that ignites a future scientist's passion.
7. Be Ready to Make Friends- Every time you volunteer, you'll meet a new group of people, each with their own unique story. You’ll find people with the same hobbies, interests, humor, and maybe even heartbreaks. Get ready for lots of laughter and simultaneous conversations. This is one of the things I look forward to the most.
8. Brace Yourself for a Gastronomic Adventure- Our hosts love to share their local culture, and that often comes with a fantastic spread of food. Be ready to sample some exotic dishes and local delicacies. Each location has its own unique specialties, so you’ll have a chance to try everything from crunchy, creamy edible bugs to other regional delights. Don't worry, we won't force you to try anything you don't want to, but trust me, your adventurous side will be rewarded. Be ready to gain a few pounds, too
9. Pack an Emergency Pouch- It’s always a good idea to pack a small pouch with essentials like over-the-counter medications for fever or stomach issues, sunscreen, and bug spray. Be mindful of your own allergies and ask what’s in the food before you eat. A few probiotic supplements and allergy meds can be lifesavers.
10. Prepare for Adventure and to Volunteer Again- Our trips aren't all work and no play. We always try to explore the local natural wonders before or after our teaching days, whether it's hiking to a waterfall, taking a river cruise, or snorkeling to see marine life. With all the fun, learning, and new friendships, you'll likely find yourself wanting to come back again and again. So, be ready to keep in touch with the group on social media or email.
Are you ready to trade a bit of your summer vacation for a truly unforgettable adventure?
About the Author
Mary Rose Claire Galbo is a training specialist at a medical device software company. She holds a BSc in Chemistry from UP Los Baños, where she also taught and conducted research, and has worked as a research chemist in rare metal processing.
Passionate about making science accessible, Mary Rose has volunteered in numerous outreach activities with UPLB groups and Pueblo Science, inspiring young students to see the fun side of STEM.
When she’s not in the lab, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, tending to her plant babies, or catching up on Asian dramas.