There are enough things you have to worry about as a college student – getting to class on time, keeping your GPA high and graduating. But what about the things you do outside of Cornell University? This is just as important, especially when it comes time to apply for work. Employers are going to be looking at your success inside and outside of school. This is why it’s recommended that you partake in a volunteer service. It offers a sleuth of benefits, yet so many students still underestimate its value. If you’re one of them, then you should heavily consider the following benefits of volunteering during college.
Help Build a Network
By now, you should know the importance of building a strong network while you’re still studying at AU Online. If not, then it’s time to get acquainted with the concept. Networking is the key to success in life. Once you graduate, it will be all about who you know – this can help you to land jobs and get promotions. It’s a good idea to volunteer in functions that are related to the field you’re going into. If you’re studying nursing, then why not raise funds for or help out at a local free clinic?
Help Build Your Resume
Again, your employers are going to be looking at all aspects of your history, both educational and non-educational. Volunteering shows employers that you are caring and willing to give up your time and effort to help others. It also shows that you have experience leading and being a good team player – two qualities many employers are looking for. It’s a great way to gain experience without having to sign up for an internship.
Volunteering can also give a boost to your financial aid package. There are a variety of grants and scholarships that are available to those who do community service. This could make the last few months or years of your college education a bit cheaper.
Help Build Career Options
It’s hard to know what direction you truly want to go in after you graduate. This is where internships come into play. But rather than fighting for the few intern slots at local companies, you can volunteer your services in your community. There are plenty of openings here. You can join different organizations to test the waters to see what tasks you don’t mind performing. This will help shape the career path you’ll eventually want to take. You may learn that you’re not cut out for taking blood work, and would instead fare better in an administrative position in a hospital.
Help Build a Sense of Accomplishment
There’s nothing like helping others achieve goals – for free. This doesn’t sound very rewarding, but at the end of the day, when your fund raiser is successful or you help organize and build something, you will feel proud. Telling others about it will also make you feel a sense of accomplishment that no paid position can give you. Helping others out of the kindness of your heart says something about your character, and it will quickly attract others to you – personally and professionally.
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