Volunteer finds joy and purpose in connecting with others

Human interaction and connection.

That’s what’s been most impactful to MD Anderson volunteer Arsalan Hojabri. And he quickly learned how important they are to cancer patients and caregivers as well.

Hojabri started as a college volunteer at MD Anderson in April 2024 while pursuing his master’s degree in medical science from Baylor University.

On any given day, he could be directing patients to the correct room for their scans, showing new patients how to download and use the MD Anderson Directions app or providing snacks to patients and caregivers at Cancer Connection, MD Anderson’s hospitality lounge in Mays Clinic or the Main Building on the Texas Medical Center Campus.

“I think Cancer Connection is the coolest place I get to volunteer,” says Hojabri. “I get the opportunity to sit down and really connect with patients.”

Building relationships

Hojabri volunteers at Cancer Connection every Thursday, passing out coffee and talking to patients.

“Everyone is so grateful, and at first I didn’t think I was doing anything to deserve that kind of gratitude,” he says. “But as I continued volunteering, I realized that that’s what’s impactful to patients. You don’t know what kind of news they may have gotten or what kind of stress they’re under. But a smile and a friendly conversation may be all that they need in that moment.”

As an aspiring doctor, Hojabri enjoys hearing about patients’ experiences.

“When I tell them I want to go to medical school, they give me great advice,” he says. “Some of them have dealt with many doctors during their cancer treatment, and some of them are former physicians themselves. They tell me what they appreciate, what’s been difficult for them, and then they wish me luck. After each conversation, it feels like I made a friend.”

Gaining skills for the future

Hojabri plans to use the skills he’s gained as an MD Anderson volunteer when he becomes a doctor.

“I know how to connect with people during a difficult time,” he says. “The willingness to slow down, talk to each patient and learn about them is important. MD Anderson has created a culture where everyone feels comfortable being vulnerable – the patients and the volunteers. That’s when connections happen.”

Learn about volunteer opportunities at MD Anderson.