Although this wasn't my first trip to Boston, returning to the city for the 2025 Boston Marathon was unlike any visit I’d experienced before. I’ve seen the historic sites and visited Quincy Market, but being part of the marathon, especially as a volunteer in the medical tent, offered a whole new perspective on the heart and spirit of the city.

As someone passionate about running since high school, I’ve always looked up to and dreamed of being a part of the Boston Marathon. I’ve completed three half marathons and recently ran my first full marathon in Philadelphia this past fall. At TUSPM, I’m also involved in the running club, which has helped me stay connected to sport while balancing the demands of school. So, when the opportunity came to volunteer at one of the most elite marathons in the world, I knew I had to be a part of it.

The Boston Marathon is more than just a race. It’s a powerful display of endurance, discipline, and unity. Every participant must qualify to run, making the field incredibly competitive and inspiring. Over 30,000 runners from all walks of life take on the 26.2-mile challenge, and witnessing their journey up close was nothing short of humbling.

Our team from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine (TUSPM) Sports Medicine Club had the privilege of volunteering at the Saint James Medical Tent just a few blocks from the finish line. This long-standing tradition is made possible by the dedication of our faculty, advisors, and students. This year, nine of us represented TUSPM, joining a collaborative medical team that included doctors, nurses, pharmacists, scribes, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and other medical students.

Podiatry had a unique floating role in the tent, which meant we stepped in wherever needed, treating everything from blistered, swollen feet and detached toenails to twisted ankles. One runner, incredibly, had run the entire marathon on a previously injured ankle. Our job was to ensure he was stable, safe, and supported in the post-race. The runners were genuinely grateful for the care they received, and it was a reminder of how deeply appreciated our work can be, even in brief interactions.

The vibe throughout the day was electric. Boston comes alive during the marathon, with the whole city rallying behind the runners. There’s a special magic in the air—one of resilience, achievement, and collective celebration. Whenever a runner entered our tent, they met with applause and congratulations. It’s that kind of energy that makes the Boston Marathon so unique.

The presence of podiatric professionals at the event was strong. We worked alongside Dr. Jonathan Kaplan, Dr. Paul Heffernan, Dr. Tara Blitz, Dr. Robert Kelemen, Dr. Brandon Kelemen, and Dr. David Sipala. We were joined by several TUSPM alumni volunteering at other locations. Reconnecting with TUSPM alumni Dr. Grace Jurgiel and Dr. Rose Lipari, now Residents at Mount Auburn and Yale New Haven, respectively, was another highlight of the weekend.

The weather on race day was perfect—not too hot or cold, which helped minimize serious injuries. Still, we saw many blister-related cases and minor sports injuries. For any aspiring podiatrist or medical student, I can’t recommend this experience enough. There’s simply no classroom or clinic that can replicate a marathon medical tent's fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Volunteering at the Boston Marathon reminded me exactly why I chose podiatry. As a lifelong dancer and runner, I’ve always understood the importance of mobility—helping people get back on their feet to continue doing what they love. This experience reaffirmed my commitment to community service and to podiatry's unique, hands-on care.

The Boston Marathon was an entire weekend of learning, connecting, and celebrating the spirit of endurance, which I’ll carry for years.

Neha Metgud is a podiatry student attending Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. She is a APMSA Delegate, AAWP National Liason, and is scheduled to graduate in 2026.