Volunteer Profile: Soomin Lee
Soomin Lee is a 3rd year Life Sciences student at the University of Toronto.
When and how did you first hear about Pueblo Science?
I heard about Pueblo Science while I was attending a physical chemistry class during my first year of university. The professor was a volunteer for Pueblo Science and one day during lecture, she talked about the organization to the class. I then became very interested about Pueblo Science’s mission and values and wanted to be a part of the team.
What volunteering job have you done with Pueblo Science?
I generally volunteer by helping out during the interactive science activity events for kids which are hosted in downtown Toronto locations, but also help out with planning/media coordinating. I also recently also travelled to Ilocos Norte, Philippines as a volunteer instructor for the RISE program this past May 2019.
What attracted you to this cause?
I am a firm believer of Pueblo Science’s missions and values and wanted to get involved in helping to make a difference. Also, as a current undergraduate science student and a self-proclaimed science geek, I really enjoy volunteering and helping out at Pueblo Science events as I get the opportunity to teach and talk about science with children.
Making liquid nitrogen ice cream with kids at the Good Morning Fundraiser, Toronto November 2019.
What inspires you?
My biggest inspiration is making change. As I meet and learn about incredible people who are able to make amazing changes within their communities, it gives me the motivation to work hard and be the best that I can be. So, in the future, I hopefully will also be able to develop the skills to be able to make a positive impact on people.
How has the volunteering experience changed you?
Travelling to Ilocos Norte for the RISE program has really given me a new perspective on the importance of science education. It made me realize how crucial the necessity for change and assistance is required in such low-resource communities. Additionally, with Pueblo Science’s immense efforts, I learned that there is still a need for greater awareness and support to promote a more solid and comprehensive science education in these communities for future generations.
Delivering the learning module on the Human Body at the RISE workshop, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, May 2019.
Why do you continue to support Pueblo Science?
Especially after participating in the RISE program, I understand that such communities really need our help in enriching their science educational programs for their students. I firmly believe in the importance of education and aspire to be able to help provide an opportunity for equal and quality education to children around the world.
What do you think other people should know about Pueblo Science?
Pueblo Science really strives to make a positive impact in our world and is an amazing organization to be a part of. I hope that if anyone is interested in Pueblo Science’s mission and values, they should not hesitate to be a part of the team and help make a difference.
Organizing a volunteer recruitment event for the Pueblo Science - UofT student chapter, Toronto November 2019.