Volunteering can be
considered an altruistic activity where an individual or a group provides
services for no financial gain to benefit another person, group or organisation.
This is just one of the many definitions for volunteering, but what does
volunteering give back to you as a volunteer? Volunteering can provide you with
incredible experience, and perhaps to your surprise, can also give you an edge
when you’re applying for work once you graduate.
First of all, let’s
talk about Job
Smart. Job Smart is a unique program at the Business School, where you can develop
hands-on, work-related skills while you study. The importance of programs like
this for students, is due to the highly competitive environment that characterises
the workplace today. It is no longer sufficient to rely on good grades to get a
job. Companies and recruiters want to see more. It’s the proactive student that
have been involved in extra-curricular activities that they will choose to
interview. Alongside set activities, Job Smart also requires students to partake
in a volunteer activity. I was involved in one of these opportunities when I commenced
the program and was lucky enough to volunteer at the Mother’s Day
Classic a Fun Run which raises funds and awareness for breast cancer
research.
Being a part of
the Mother’s Day Classic was a fantastic experience. A very early morning start
of 5am was how we kicked off the day! As they say no pain no gain, and the
early wake up alarm was ultimately worth.
All of the volunteers
were given their duties, although they were not complicated to perform, the
value of the services provided to the participating runners and event
organisers were unbelievable. It was incredible to see how a simple action such
offering a glass of water or banana could generate such high level of empathy and
the feeling of giving back to the community. All the participants whether
running or volunteering, were there for the same cause, to support cancer research
and honour those who have battled the disease. The feeling of helping those
people to support their cause, the thousands of sincere "thank yous"
received, made it a meaningful contribution. I would recommend for this reason to
seek involvement with a volunteering opportunity; it can help you understand
that there are things in life that are important, for what sacrifices and
support should be made, without looking for a monetary return. Volunteering not
only provides you a sense of fulfilment but also adds value to your resume and
career future.
In a world where
concern regarding environmental, social and economic problems is on the rise,
companies seek potential employees with a mind open to 360 degrees, they want
people who are dedicated to give back to their community, even without the
financial motivation. Overall volunteering gives you competitive edge through
strengthening your transferable skills.
A volunteering
experience enables you to develop and improve the fundamental skill of teamwork,
essential in every workplace. Volunteering at a large scale event means to
work with hundreds of people, people that you meet on the day minutes before to
start your role. Any nerves or shyness can be left at the door as good
communication, problem solving skills and adaptability must be readily adopted,
to ensure you are a valuable team member. Graduate recruiters and organisations
recognise that volunteering is as credible as paid work and demonstrates admirable
personality traits.
Being an
international student myself it was great way for me to have the chance to
integrate and support the local Sydney community where I’m living. It is a
great feeling knowing that my volunteer experience will be advantageous on my
resume and in a job interview
Volunteering is
a great way to add value to your success with any job application and can make all
the difference to help make you stand out from the pack!
By Marco Poli, current Masters of Commerce student and Job Smart
Ambassador at the University of Sydney Business School.
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