Emily
How can I apply my love for volunteering to my college life in the future?
Volunteering has become a significant part of my life, and I can't imagine life without it. I do a lot of work with kids who have special needs and I want to figure out how to incorporate that into a college atmosphere. #volunteering #merceruniversity
5 answers
Sidney Schuttrow
Sidney’s Answer
I was blessed enough in college to find a degree program that highlighted the importance of volunteer work in the curriculum. What is your major going to be if you do not mind me asking? If your campus does not have a philanthropic department as suggested above you may have a student group that gets together for your major that can do service projects in your community. It is a great resume builder as well. Internships are part of most degrees to give you some experience before entering the workforce, but volunteering is another great way to learn job skills and add to your experience.
Linda Heuser
Linda’s Answer
Kate A. Ekman, CVA
Kate A.’s Answer
Hi Emily!
When I read your question, I thought about how your passion for service could lead you down a path of helping on issues you care about in an even greater way in the future. So, I would like to add to the others who have given advice and encourage you to get involved in student activism and leadership in any way possible. Maybe there is a club that is already focused on issues you care about that you can become involved in and perhaps eventually take on a leadership role or maybe find some like-minded friends and start your own club! I know at my school we also had programs for students focused on developing leadership skills and I wish I'd investigated them at the time.
Sarajane Foltz
Sarajane’s Answer
It is so wonderful you enjoy service! Most campuses have a philanthropic department. It looks like there is some good information for Mercer and how you can get involved as a student. Here is a great resource:
https://community.mercer.edu/volunteerism
I participated in greek life, which provided various volunteer opportunities for causes I cared about. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, network, develop skills and explore career interests.
Sarajane recommends the following next steps:
Hi Sarajane, your advice is awesome! Your next steps are on point. Great tips!
Sheila Jordan
Anne Palez
Anne’s Answer
it's wonderful to see you nurturing and growing your passions and commitment to your community. If your current college does not offer any type of volunteer programs in the areas you desire, check out volunteermatch.org, where you can customize your search for volunteer opportunities in your areas of interest - in your local (& surrounding) communities. Once you set up your profile, you will receive notifications when volunteer opportunities become available. It's a great way to get started!
Best of luck to you in all your endeavors !