A Teen Volunteer Shares Her Experience at Sturdy Memorial Hospital

By Pallavi Cherukuri

Editor’s Note: Sturdy Health has a robust volunteer program for individuals ages 15 and older. The program welcomes teens who are interested in exploring healthcare careers and who bring energy, kindness, and a fresh perspective to our community. To learn more about our volunteer program, email voffice@sturdyhealth.org

In this blog, Pallavi Cherukuri shares her experience as a first-time volunteer and how it helped to shape her future goals.

This summer, I did something completely new: I volunteered at Sturdy Memorial Hospital.

I've always wanted to be a doctor, but I had never really been inside a hospital before — not like this. When I signed up, I wasn’t sure what to expect. All I knew was that I wanted to help people.

Stepping Into the Unknown

Orientation was the first step. To get there, we had to walk through the basement. The hallways were narrow, with pipes on the ceiling and signs like Authorized Staff Only. It felt like we were entering a secret part of the hospital. I was nervous, but also excited.

Learning the Role of a Wayfinder

My main job was being a Wayfinder — helping people get where they needed to go. At first, it sounded simple: just give directions. But I quickly realized it was so much more.

Sometimes people were nervous, lost, or upset. Just smiling, talking to them, or walking with them to their destination made a difference.

One day, I helped an older woman find her husband’s room. She looked tired, so I walked with her and made small talk. Right before we got there, she turned to me and said, “You remind me of my granddaughter.” Her eyes filled with tears, and she smiled. I’ll never forget that moment. It showed me how even small acts of kindness can mean a lot.

Inspired by the Sturdy Health Staff

Another thing I loved was watching the doctors and nurses. They were always moving with purpose, but never in a way that seemed rushed or scary. Some would smile or nod as they passed by, even though they were busy. I admired that. It made me want to work even harder— and someday be someone who helps people, too.

Feeling Included

What surprised me most was how included I felt. Even though I was “just” a teen volunteer, the staff treated me with kindness and respect. Every thank-you from a nurse or smile from a patient made me feel like I was part of something bigger.

Walking Out With Confidence

I started in the basement, not knowing what I was getting myself into. But I left through the front door with a whole new direction. And as cliché as it sounds, I didn't just feel more confident — I knew the kind of person I wanted to be: someone who shows up for people when it counts.