Reyna Viala is a junior at Stony Brook University in New York, where she is pursuing a psychology major on the pre-dental track. Her interest in public health led her to volunteer with CMMB for four weeks in July, 2017, where she helped classify documents, translate program quarterly reports from French to English, and design a new prescription form template for Bishop Joseph Sullivan Hospital. Read on to learn more about Reyna’s experiences at CMMB, along with her hopes, fears and passions.

What was your first impression coming to CMMB? The first time I visited Bishop Joseph Sullivan Hospital (BJSH), I was amazed by the beautiful hospital environment, including the open roof and the well-kept garden. Hospitals usually evoke the impression of claustrophobia, depression and illness, but BJSH was unexpectedly inviting and calming. Patients feel welcome and reassured when they visit, especially for those who travel from afar. A welcoming environment also encourages patients to return if they have other health issues.

How was your experience working at CMMB? Everyone works very well together and if I had any questions I could just ask anyone – the staff were very welcoming and patient with teaching me and answering my questions. I really appreciate the trust that was given to me through my responsibilities, even though I was new.

What are your hopes for CMMB? I hope CMMB will achieve success in its programs and leave behind a sustained legacy so that the population in Haiti can stand on its own feet, without being dependent on development aid anymore. It would be great for Haiti to turn around and offer help to other countries or populations in need through learning from experiences with organizations like CMMB.

What are your biggest passions? I love dancing – I dance ballet, jazz, modern, ballroom, hip hop and Haitian folklore. I’m currently the president of Stony Brook Ballroom Dance Team, so if I’m not studying, I’m dancing. I also love musical theater and acrylic painting.

Vounteer in Haiti, Reyna, colorful acrylic painting

One of Reyna’s colorful acrylic paintings.

Volunteer in Haiti, Reyna, dances in competition at rutgers

Reyna competing at a ballroom competition at Rutgers University in 2017.

What is your biggest fear? I have an irrational fear of whales, especially killer whales. I sometimes have nightmares about getting stranded at sea, with a huge whale circling beneath the water… it’s terrifying.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself. People usually know me by my middle name – my first name is actually Solange 😉