Making a difference by Volunteering

In the bustling world of university life, there's an activity that's all about giving back, connecting with others, and making a meaningful impact on the community. A sense of purpose that extends far beyond the campus walls. I’m talking about community service and volunteering. As a firm believer, there are a lot of things you can learn and benefit from volunteering. When you volunteer you are contributing to society and getting paid in experience and of course happiness. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting involved

Volunteers posing for photo

It’s a Catalyst for Positive Change

Community service and volunteering provide an opportunity to create real change around you. Firsthand experience cultivates empathy, you understand the challenges faced by others and develop a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. Every action you take contributes to building a brighter, more compassionate society. Even if it's just bringing a smile to someone’s face and possibly making their day.

Enhance Employability Beyond the Classroom

Community service and Volunteering offer a different kind of education. While not the primary motivation, community service, and volunteering can also enhance your resume. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and possess the soft skills acquired through these experiences. You'll also learn valuable hard skills like event planning, asset management, crowd work, and much more. They may not seem as important but will inevitably build up your professional arsenal.

Creating Lasting Connections

Volunteering brings people together. The relationships you build while working side by side to make a difference can lead to lasting friendships and a supportive network both on and off campus. These interactions can also lead to potential career opportunities, mentors, references, and even future collaborations. I can’t count the number of times someone brought an opportunity or referred me to something I would be a good fit for, and a lot of jobs I’ve had over the years have come through an opportunity while volunteering. That’s why it’s not always what you know that’s important but also who you know.

Exploring New Passions

Community service allows you to explore and discover passions you might not have known you had. Whether it is working with children or participating in environmental conservation, you may find a cause that deeply resonates with you. There are numerous volunteering opportunities and organizations that cater to these passions.

Boosting Mental Well-being

Studies have shown that engaging in acts of kindness and volunteering can boost mental well-being. The sense of accomplishment and fulfillment you get from helping others can reduce your stress, and anxiety, and make you feel warm and fulfilled.

Community service and volunteering represent a noble endeavor that transcends academic achievement, it’s something that will ultimately shape your character. By embracing the opportunity to serve, you not only impact lives but also grow as an individual, learning valuable lessons that textbooks alone could never teach. So, take the leap and go volunteer. You will make a difference, slowly but surely, one act of kindness at a time.

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An International Student’s Guide to Volunteering

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The Odessy of Clubs and Societies