Volunteering is one of those things that almost everyone has thought about doing at some point, but not everyone actually gets around to doing. Between classes, work, and social life, it’s easy to feel like there just isn’t enough time. But the truth is, picking up volunteering opportunities can be one of the best decisions you make, not just for your community, but for yourself too. From boosting your CV to meeting new people and discovering new passions, volunteering offers rewards that go far beyond the hours you put in.
Volunteering looks great on your CV
Let’s be honest, one of the biggest reasons people start volunteering is because it looks good on a CV. And that’s completely fine! Employers love seeing volunteering experience because it shows that you’re proactive, responsible, and capable of balancing multiple commitments. It tells them that you’re not just focused on your own success, but that you care about something bigger than yourself.
Volunteering can also help you develop transferable skills that come in handy in almost any career. Things like teamwork, leadership, communication, and time management all naturally come from volunteering. For example, helping organise an event or running a fundraising campaign gives you the same kind of project management experience you’d get in a professional role. Plus, when you talk about it in an interview, it gives you real examples to draw on (ones that show initiative and compassion).
Giving back to your community feels good
Beyond the CV benefits, volunteering simply feels good. There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing that your time and energy are helping someone else. Whether you’re supporting a local food drive, mentoring younger students, or helping international students settle into university life, you become part of something meaningful.
Volunteering reminds you that even small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect. It builds empathy and awareness of the world around you, and it often gives you a sense of belonging, something that can be especially valuable if you’re living away from home.
Where to find volunteering opportunities
The good news is that there are so many ways to get involved. You don’t need to look far, in fact, some of the best opportunities might already be right in front of you.
- Through societies
One of the easiest ways to start volunteering is by getting involved in a society. Many societies organise community projects, fundraisers, or outreach events where you can lend a hand. Whether you’re part of a cultural society, a sports club, or an academic group, there’s often a volunteering component somewhere in there. Plus, many universities allow you to log your volunteering hours through their volunteering platforms, so you can easily track your contributions. - Friends International
If you’re looking for something that connects you with people from different backgrounds, Friends International is a great option. It’s an organisation that supports international students by helping them feel welcome and settled. Volunteering with them can mean anything from running events to simply being a friendly face for someone who’s new to the country. It’s a chance to learn about different cultures while also giving others a sense of home. - The Religious and Belief Centre
For those looking for a more spiritual or reflective form of volunteering, the Religious and Belief Centre offers opportunities that combine faith, service, and community. You don’t necessarily have to be religious to get involved, many of their projects are interfaith or focused on promoting understanding between different belief groups. It’s a space where you can give back while also exploring questions of meaning, purpose, and belonging. - Oakleaf Centre
Another great place to check out is Oakleaf, which often lists various volunteering opportunities throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in working with local charities, supporting campus events, or contributing to environmental projects, Oakleaf can help you find something that fits your interests and schedule.
At the end of the day, volunteering is about connection, to others, to your community, and to yourself. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, make a difference, and pick up experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve finished your studies. Whether you’re doing it for your CV, your personal growth, or just to help out, volunteering is one of those things that always gives back more than you expect. So why not give it a try?
