Alejandra was born in Placetas, Cuba and immigrated to Florida when she was six years old. Miami has become her home and she loves serving her community. She graduated a year early from the University of Miami with a major in Health Sciences, and minors in English, Chemistry, and Public Health. This year she is applying to medical school to fulfill her life-long dream of being a physician.

Volunteering has a powerful impact on both the individual and the community they serve. For the volunteer, it provides a sense of purpose and satisfaction. “I think the best way to learn about yourself is through volunteering. It allows you to shift your perspective and preconceived notions, while nurturing your ability to connect with others,” says Alejandra. “You expose yourself to a diversity of experiences and in turn a diversity of thought. In a lot of ways, volunteering is self-serving. At the end of the day, you get a long-lasting sense of fulfillment while also bringing joy to another person.”

Alejandra officially began volunteering with StudentsCare in February 2021. “Growing up, I was very familiar with a hospital setting. My mother’s battle with cancer showed me how isolating hospitalization could be. I wanted to make the experience better for others and that’s why I joined StudentsCare. Now, I get to make kids days a bit brighter by playing games, telling stories, and allowing them to be children.”

“My absolute favorite memory was when my buddy became so excited telling us a story that we spent almost two hours hearing her talk. She showed how passionate she was, how much she cared for her friends, and all these amazing qualities inspired me,” shared Alejandra. “Our buddies are some of the most resilient people I’ve met. They have taught me what it’s truly like to be perseverant. I hope to have impactful relationships with my buddies and nurture a safe space where they can be themselves!”

We are so grateful for Alejandra’s commitment and dedication! Thank you for all that you do to support our mission. Your efforts make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.

Thank you for being a part of our team!

Alejandra Curbelo-Paz, college student volunteer

“My mother’s battle with cancer showed me how isolating hospitalization could be. I wanted to make the experience better for others and that’s why I joined StudentsCare.”