benefits of volunteering for university students essay

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a great community service essay.

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Why Students Should Volunteer - and How to Motivate Them to Participate

What is giving compass.

We connect donors to learning resources and ways to support community-led solutions. Learn more about us .

Giving Compass' Take:

•  Basil Sadiq describes why it is critical for students to volunteer to develop their life skills and have opportunities to contribute to society. 

•  How can funders help to facilitate remote volunteering opportunities for students? What causes in your area would benefit from an influx of volunteers right now? 

•  Read about six ways to find high-quality volunteers .

Volunteering is more than spending one’s time actively participating in selfless acts or activities that benefit other people. It has a greater impact on society as a whole. Volunteers are of great help to the community as they immerse themselves in a pool of opportunities. These opportunities are one reason why we need to encourage more students to volunteer.

By volunteering, students develop life skills and become well-rounded individuals.

Starting young provides an opportunity for students to learn and grow into valuable members of society. They develop life skills as they get immersed in activities that are outside of their comfort zones.

Volunteering helps students become competent, employable, and better meet their learning objectives.

Another opportunity to take advantage of is becoming competent and employable after meeting all learning objectives. Volunteering also serves as a training ground for honing students’ skills.

Employers seek volunteer experience from fresh graduates.

Volunteers are reliable, selfless, responsible, and willing to do more than what is asked even without monetary compensation. These are qualities that employers look for when hiring fresh graduates.

Read the full article on student volunteers by Basil Sadiq at Volunteer Match.

More Articles

Five ways volunteering boosts career development, volunteer match, aug 21, 2019, four reasons every teen should volunteer, volunteermatch, mar 3, 2021.

Become a newsletter subscriber to stay up-to-date on the latest Giving Compass news.

Donate to Giving Compass to help us guide donors toward practices that advance equity.

Partnerships

© 2024 Giving Compass Network

A 501(c)(3) organization. EIN: 85-1311683

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Life

Essay Samples on Benefits of Volunteering

Embracing your purpose by volunteering in retirement.

Volunteering During Retirement Retirement for many of us is seen as a time where we have the opportunity to do things we’ve always wanted to do but never had the chance, whether that's travelling to a new country, rekindling old hobbies or volunteering. During retirement,...

• Benefits of Volunteering
• Volunteering

Empowering Youth Through Volunteering in Malaysia

The Evolution of Volunteerism in Malaysia The spirit of community services among Malaysians first swept the country in the 19th century. Initially fuelled by religious and community revivals in the 1950s, the first generation of the service was drawn to charity in a very personal...

Unlocking Opportunities: The Power of Volunteering

Introduction In our cutting edge, industrialist world, accomplishing something for nothing may sound odd. Western culture has arranged itself on progress and benefit, individuals having sharpened proficient abilities, and having the capacity to 'move' these aptitudes; along these lines, working for nothing does not fit...

Benefits Of Volunteering And Participating In Volunteering Activities

A person who performs a service willingly and without pay is how dictionary.com describes a volunteer. Volunteering has been a part of my life for many years. For the past five summers, I have spent my time serving at a place called Camp Barnabas. While...

Best topics on Benefits of Volunteering

1. Embracing Your Purpose by Volunteering in Retirement

2. Empowering Youth Through Volunteering in Malaysia

3. Unlocking Opportunities: The Power of Volunteering

4. Benefits Of Volunteering And Participating In Volunteering Activities

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

• 100% unique papers
• 3 hrs deadline option
• Career Goals
• Personality
• Perseverance
• Personal Experience
• Forgiveness
• Barbie Doll
• Punctuality

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Top 8 Benefits of Community Service for Students

Common Barriers in Volunteering

When this big transition takes place in your life, college volunteering may feel like it has its barriers. With classes, clubs, sports teams, art projects, and paying jobs being a priority, it is easy for volunteering to suddenly take a back seat on your schedule. At Habitat for Humanity, we empathize with college being a fantastic but sometimes overwhelming or stressful time with many new changes. You may not have access to transportation off-campus or know where to even start. We encourage you to look at the big picture and learn more about the benefits of volunteering. 

Importance of Community Services

Community service for students and college volunteering helps students to acquire knowledge, life skills and provide service to people who need it most. Community service and volunteering for college students give young people the opportunity to become active members in their communities, creating a positive societal impact. Habitat for Humanity is excited to share some of the many benefits of community service for students .

Social Benefits 

Because volunteering engages students directly with a community, it allows for a special bond with those people or organizations being served. Community service for students increases social awareness and responsibility as well. By committing to a project or activity with others, college volunteering helps to build and strengthen relationships and make new friendships. Your social, professional, and support network is bound to grow, introducing you to so many new people who care about the same things as you!

Psychological benefits

By helping others, you will also decrease stress and depression. One of the major risk factors for depression is social isolation. College volunteering helps you feel better about yourself and increase overall satisfaction in your life by helping others and staying in regular contact with others. Volunteer work with animals and pets has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and boost your mood. 

Boost Confidence 

Are you shy, or do you have a difficult time meeting new people? Thankfully, volunteering gives people, outgoing or not, the opportunity to develop and practice social skills by meeting with people who share the same interests and goals. With college volunteering, you will become more comfortable with your fellow volunteers over time and boost your confidence levels too. Community service for students boosts self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment. This newfound pride will have positive effects on your present and future. 

Cognitive Benefits

While the benefits of community service for students include directly helping and making a difference in an organization and the lives of people you are serving, it will also make a difference in your career prospects. College volunteering helps students cognitively by enhancing their knowledge, growing from new experiences, and developing and improving interpersonal communication skills as well. You will gain new work-related skills through community service, a better sense of social responsibility, and make a positive impact on your community. To take service work to the next level professionally, consider exploring the fields of teaching, nursing, psychology, and more. 

Staying Active

There are many mental benefits of volunteering, but there are physical benefits as well. Volunteering keeps you physically healthy and lessens symptoms or risks of chronic pain, depression, improves heart health, and more. Studies have shown that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate as well, and volunteering has many benefits to your physical and mental health at any age. Taking care of all four types of health is important for overall well-being.

Advance Your Career

College volunteering can directly help you get experiences in your areas of interest and meet people in a professional field. Through things like teamwork, problem-solving, practicing communication and organizational skills, planning and managing projects, and more, you will be practicing skills learned and used in the workplace. Various volunteer opportunities provide additional training, such as volunteering for a shelter or working in a childcare environment. Volunteering can also allow you to hone skills you already possess and use them to benefit the greater good in your community as well. 

Boost Resume

Another importance of community service for students is to improve job prospects by boosting your resume. Studies have shown that volunteering is connected to greater odds of employment, and most employers are more likely to choose candidates with volunteering experience. College volunteering, and volunteering at any age, will not only boost your resume but help you to stand out professionally. Here are some ideas to help you get started and inspire you to find volunteering opportunities you may not have otherwise considered. 

• Social Media
• Graphic Design
• Construction
• Search Engine Optimization , or SEO
• Program Management
• Board Opportunities
• Events Management 

By participating in college volunteering, it can be easier to escape from your day-to-day responsibilities or stressors. By exploring your interests while helping others, volunteering can be a meaningful way to stay relaxed, refreshed, and energized. We all need time away from work and obligations, and by taking a step back from worrying about yourself, you can make space to help yourself grow. It can be helpful to explore an environment of volunteering that differs from your professional or schoolwork, such as finding something to do outdoors rather than indoors or something that requires movement if you are typically stationary. 

Volunteering with Limited Mobility

If you are living with disabilities or are lacking time or transportation, there are ways to volunteer over the phone or computer as well! Things like phone banking, graphic design, writing, public relations work, and more can all be done from your home environment. If this option sounds ideal to you, check out organizations you are interested in to see what opportunities they offer. 

Volunteering as a Team

While there are many benefits of community service for students, there are various benefits of volunteering with your family, friends, and loved ones. It may be challenging to find time in everyone’s schedules to coordinate volunteer work, but this is a great way to get to know organizations in your community and find resources or programs available to your family and friends. Volunteering with children is especially important because they are always looking up to adults for what to do and how to behave.

How to Get Involved

The main importance of community services is to give back to others. Because so many different organizations and initiatives exist, it is helpful to look at your interests and determine what would be beneficial in your community as well. There are many ways to give back, and here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Walk your neighbor’s dogs.
• Visit with an elderly neighbor.
• Help neighboring younger students with homework.
• Offer to grocery shop for an elderly neighbor or a neighbor living with different disabilities.
• Offer to provide free childcare to family, friends, or neighbors who need it.
• Start fundraising or donating to an organization you care about.
• Organize or participate in a food or clothing drive.
• Donate food, clothes, and/or toys.

Be the Change

Volunteering can benefit you as much as the organization you are volunteering at, and you are bound to build many new friendships, boost your social and professional skills, expand your social and professional network, improve your quality of life, and so much more. The importance of community services is greater now more than ever after a pandemic that has upended the lives of so many people worldwide. Whether you are new to this experience or not, your time is valuable and useful, and the benefits of community service for students are endless. Visit our website to learn more about how you can get started volunteering today!

About Habitat for Humanity of Broward

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Broward brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. Habitat Broward offers a “hand up” not a “hand out” to families who are unable to qualify for conventional home financing but are willing to work hard to improve their family’s lives and achieve the economic empowerment of homeownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Broward please call (954) 396-3030 or visit habitatbroward.org or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HabitatBroward .

• 888 NW 62nd Street, 2nd Floor Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
• Phone: (954) 396-3030
• Fax: (954) 570-0054
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

10 Reasons Why Students Should Volunteer

Take a look at the top 10 benefits of volunteering, whilst you're a student.

Gaining real-world work experience through volunteering is a great way for students to build skills, increase employability and enjoy a range of other benefits.

Volunteer organisations are crying out for student volunteers to help deliver programs in all sectors. From health care, business, event management to teaching, the beauty of volunteering is its broad scope, accessibility, and flexibility around other commitments. And best of all, you often don’t need any specific volunteer skills - just a positive attitude.

In this article, we’ll look at the main benefits of student volunteering, while answering the important question:  how does volunteering help you as a student?

1. Meet New People

Volunteering is a great way to extend your social network and connect with other people who share a common goal and similar passions but perhaps different backgrounds. 

Volunteering provides regular social interaction outside of the school environment, and is proven to improve brain function, increase mental health and life expectancy. It can also help increase students' social awareness and build connections throughout the community that can lead to a more cohesive and inclusive society. In fact, according to Track it Forward , volunteering helps connect individuals to their community, which can lower the mortality rate by 2.7%!

2. Become A Leader

Volunteering provides students with many opportunities to hone their leadership skills. When you are passionate about a cause, developing leadership skills is a natural side effect. Some students might find some hidden talents, learning that they thrive working in a team, organising groups, giving instructions and teaching others. While others may seek to develop skills in the administrative side of leadership, by taking on tasks such as streamlining rostering or training using volunteering management software such as Rosterfy . 

Regular volunteers, regardless of their age, are often trusted with important roles, giving students a chance to develop their confidence and communication skills, while being treated like a valued member of a team. Taking initiative is a hard skill to train, but a trusting and supportive manager will encourage students to speak up when they think something could be improved.

3. Give back to the community

“Be the change you wish to see in the world,” rings especially true for students volunteering.  

At its most basic, volunteering is about using your passion to give back to those in need and contributing to community resources. It’s an extremely rewarding experience to be able to give your time and skills to help others, engage in civic responsibility and impact the world positively. And the sense of satisfaction is something that’s hard to replicate in the workforce.

Students may also find that volunteering can help them put their own problems such as exam stress into perspective. Volunteering may even introduce students to new cultures or cross-sections of society that they wouldn’t otherwise get to meet, thus broadening perspectives and understanding of the world.

When deciding where to give their time, students should focus on what they are really passionate about and how their skills could create value at an organisation. 

4. Students volunteering stand out from the crowd

Students volunteering gain valuable experience that they can add to their CV or LinkedIn. While every job teaches important skills, taking on volunteer work can set students apart from the competition. 

Employers will look very favourably on students volunteer work experience, as it gives an insight into the type of person a student is away from work. It can also help employers see if the candidate will be a cultural fit with the team, which is extremely important in today’s highly collaborative workplaces. 

On top of that, volunteering gives students the opportunity to put what they learn in the classroom into practice. This is especially useful in highly practical fields such as health care or teaching. They’ll be one step ahead when it comes to entering the workplace, already equipped with some of the key skills needed for the role. 

5. Improve mental and physical health

University students living away from home for the first time may find it hard to maintain a healthy diet and exercise on top of keeping up with their studies. They may also be suffering from homesickness, loneliness and anxiety as they adapt to their new phase of life.

So perhaps the biggest benefit that students can gain from volunteering is the positive boost to mental and physical health . A recent study from NCVO found that 77% of volunteers benefited from improved mental health after volunteering, with just over half (53%) saying it had improved their physical health too. And it makes sense, with many volunteer roles involving physical activities such as walking, setting up and packing down events, manning drink stations at sporting events, playing with children at camps and more. 

6. Achieve a balance

There’s no denying it - school and university can be a stressful time. The pressure to do well in exams can overwhelm some students, while others find the pressure to choose a career path too much.

While hobbies such as playing sports and spending time with friends can help reduce stress, volunteering is another way to find a healthy balance away from the books. We know volunteering helps improve mental and physical health, and taking time to get away from studies while doing something meaningful can often be the mental reset students need. Getting involved with volunteering from a young age encourages students to become socially-minded individuals at every stage in life.

7. Work in a team

Since volunteering is collaborative in nature, it’s a great way to gain experience working in a team. Many workplaces are shifting towards cross-functional collaborative teams, so being able to give concrete examples of working in a team to future employers will be a big plus.

While at university, students will be used to socialising with other students similar to them. However, volunteering attracts people from all ages, walks of life and backgrounds, just like in the real world. Getting used to working with people from diverse backgrounds is important for boosting patience, empathy, understanding and communication skills - all important soft skills that employers look for.

8. Students volunteering can test out a career

Often students choose to study a degree without really knowing what the career entails. Perhaps it’s what their parents do, or they think it sounds interesting, or it was simply a subject they were good at during school. But without gaining real-world experience in the career, it might end up being a big waste of time and money.

Volunteering is the best way to test out a career alongside studies, and determine whether it really is a good fit. 

Many companies offer short-term internships or placements, giving students a foot in the door at potential future employers. This is a great way to understand more about the industry, and ask people in the industry more about their jobs and career paths. 

Alternatively, volunteering with charity or non profits who run programs in students’ chosen fields are always looking for volunteers to help deliver their services. This is a great way to get out there and meet people, while understanding a bit more about what the job entails, both good and bad! 

And don’t forget, opportunities for online volunteer work for students are ever-increasing, especially for IT tasks such as web development, social media, and graphic design.

9. Discover new places

When it comes to volunteering locations, the world is at your feet. Students with itchy feet may want to take the opportunity to combine volunteering with travel and seek opportunities abroad.

There is no shortage of places that are looking for volunteers overseas, in all disciplines. Students who are interested in working with kids could travel to Vietnam and teach English to schoolchildren, or those interested in the environment may want to visit South Africa and get involved with conservation efforts.

Volunteering overseas is a unique way to learn about other countries and cultures whilst simultaneously giving back and meeting new people. More often than not, students volunteering overseas will be travelling as part of a student volunteer program that organises the placement and room and board for the duration of the stay.

Let’s not forget, there are many volunteer opportunities closer to home that also help students discover new places. From beach clean ups to outdoor volunteering at sporting events, it’s highly likely that every opportunity will be a chance to see a place from a fresh perspective.

10. Students volunteering have fun!

Last but not least, volunteering is fun! It is a chance for students to get away from the daily grind of lectures and studying, meet new people, learn new skills and gain a sense of accomplishment and pride. Volunteering student opportunities are often priceless experiences: from getting backstage access to the Super Bowl , to organising games at a children's camp , or selling raffle tickets at a star-studded conference , volunteering is anything but boring!

Why should students volunteer?

The benefits of volunteer work for students are numerous; from health, to career prospects and social networks, volunteering is a fantastic extra-curricular activity for students to get involved with.

And best of all, there’s no shortage of volunteer opportunities, so students will always be able to find a cause they are passionate about to lend their time and skills to.

To find these opportunities, check out:

• The best places to find volunteer opportunities in your area.
• 12 different types of volunteer work you might not know about
• 7 different ways to volunteer outdoors 

Rosterfy exists to connect volunteers to events and causes they're passionate about through our end-to-end volunteer management solution. 

If you’d like to learn more about how Rosterfy can help you recruit and manage volunteers with ease, why not book a demo of our product today?

Similar posts

Top 22 virtual volunteer opportunities you can do from home.

Take a look at Rosterfy's 22 great virtual volunteer opportunities that you can get involved with today.

12 Different Types of Volunteering Work You Can Try

The team at Rosterfy have pulled together a list of 12 different types of volunteering work for you to consider and try.

8 Ways to Help the Environment Through Volunteering

Looking for a way to give back to the planet? Check out these eight examples of how to get involved in helping the environment through volunteering.

Join our Newsletter Mailing List

Be the first to know about new Volunteer Management insights, news and feature updates to Rosterfy.

What are the benefits of student volunteering?

To mark student volunteering week 2018, a number of students from around the country explore the benefits of volunteering while at university.

Seeta Bhardwa

“Volunteering at university has improved my well-being a lot and gives me a regular routine beyond studying and time to socialise with people I might not have met otherwise,” Kelly Wing, a linguistics student at the University of Cambridge , says about the benefits she gets from volunteering.

Student Volunteering Week runs from 19 to 25 February with the aim of encouraging more students to take up volunteering opportunities in the local community. The week , which is delivered through a partnership between Student Volunteering Network, Student Hubs and the National Union of Students, is now in its 18th year.

Many universities are holding events throughout the week: examples include a pizza-eating competition at the Loughborough University . You can find more information on events around the country  here .

Students who volunteer report that they gain a lot of benefits from it, including better time management, opportunities to meet new people, satisfaction from having helped others and improved mental well-being. Xheni Brahaxhija, an accounting and finance student at Kingston University , says that volunteering has sparked new interests that are helping her to “figure out what I want to do, now and in the future”.

Watch the video below to discover some of the benefits of volunteering for students.  

Read more:  Why student volunteering matters 

You may also like

.css-185owts{overflow:hidden;max-height:54px;text-indent:0px;} Volunteering helps international students integrate: Student Volunteering Week 2016

Francis Wight

Why student volunteering matters

Molly Whyte, Sam Newell

Register free and enjoy extra benefits

Importance of Volunteerism Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Need to write an essay about volunteering? Community service is a truly hot topic! This argumentative essay about the importance of volunteerism contains everything necessary to inspire you!

Introduction

Importance of volunteering.

It is so disappointing that many people within our societies do not know, understand or value the importance of services in the community by volunteering. Serving society is very important in helping to solve many problems, especially those that have been neglected by the government and other social programs.

Volunteering to serve the community is not only beneficial to the individuals involved, but it is necessary in creating better societies for all. For instance, community members may volunteer to clean up a town near them or feeder roads.

This way, all members benefit by living in a clean environment that is free from illnesses related to sanitation. By cleaning the compounds surrounding them, society members help promote the health of their young ones who are always playing, during which time they can eat anything on the ground which would have otherwise caused them serious infections.

Community work does not always revolve around environmental work, but it is equally important for the fortunate members of society to help those who are less fortunate. Community members may volunteer to offer gifts and other services to help the less fortunate ones.

For example, people may contribute goods such as clothes and food to help the street children who have no homes or take them to children’s homes from where they can be provided for. This way, the members of society will have helped others live a more and better comfortable life.

Especially young children will feel the love that they never got from their parents. This is essential in the growth and development of a child, and the assistance and love they receive from society will surely help them grow to be better adults in society (Landry 1).

Volunteer work in our societies basically involves sharing and friendship through which people can find out what others need so that they can work on assisting them in all ways possible. Through volunteer work, many people’s lives are changed, be it through words or material assistance.

For instance, a community may volunteer to help young people addicted to drugs where they organize meetings with them, and doctors or psychiatrists volunteer to talk to them about the effects of drugs as the community helps them avoid the vise by giving them jobs to keep them busy.

Being responsive to the needs of other people makes us realize and appreciate humanity and spiritual being, as well as feeling good for changing someone’s life. This can even help shy people gain self-esteem. Volunteering in society work helps in promoting and building our social obligations as human beings.

Through community volunteer work, people are able to respect each because they work together without any discrimination. Volunteerism can be thought of as a social capital where everyone is concerned for the well-being of others. It also helps create trust and confidence between society members and brings society together (McHenry 1).

A society where people volunteer and work together always faces fewer problems since all the members tend to get along well and support each when they are in need.

The security of society is also improved, especially through the rehabilitation of street children and drug addicts who are more likely to cause insecurity in society. By supporting each other, society members can live in harmony and be happier than those societies that do not work together.

Importance of Volunteering: FAQ

• What Is Volunteer Work? Volunteering is unpaid work done by a person to benefit the community. In other words, volunteering means that someone is giving their time to help an individual, a group of people, or a non-profit organization.
• Why Is Volunteerism Important? Volunteer work develops and improves the community. Besides, it is helpful for the one who deals with it. Volunteering can improve one’s mental health, reduce stress, and give meaning to their life.
• How Does Volunteerism Benefit the Community? Volunteering is related to the need for people to participate in their community and be important to others. Imbued with such values as reciprocity, solidarity, and mutual trust, it significantly improves the quality of life.

Works Cited

Landry, L. “The importance of volunteering.” 2002. Web.

McHenry, W. “ The Importance of Community Service . ” 2000. Web.

• Medical Career and Education Experience
• Corporate Volunteer Programs for Employees
• Should Everyone Be Required to Perform Public Service?
• Rebuilding Families and Marriage in America’s Society
• Cultural Influences on Personality
• Single Parenthood: History and Economic Implication
• Defining of True Friendship
• Outsourcing and Bad Working Conditions
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2018, May 23). Importance of Volunteerism Essay. https://ivypanda.com/essays/importance-of-volunteerism/

"Importance of Volunteerism Essay." IvyPanda , 23 May 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/importance-of-volunteerism/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'Importance of Volunteerism Essay'. 23 May.

IvyPanda . 2018. "Importance of Volunteerism Essay." May 23, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/importance-of-volunteerism/.

1. IvyPanda . "Importance of Volunteerism Essay." May 23, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/importance-of-volunteerism/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Importance of Volunteerism Essay." May 23, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/importance-of-volunteerism/.

• Search & Match
• For Businesses
• For Public Sector
• For CSR Platforms
• For Agencies
• For Nonprofits
• For Volunteers
• Customer Stories
• Volunteer by City
• Virtual Volunteering
• Kindhearted Cities Index
• Youth Activation Hub
• Who we integrate with
• Offer VolunteerMatch to your clients
• The Learning Center
• Resource Center
• Volunteer Help Center
• Nonprofit Help Center
• YourMatch Help Center
• API Documentation

Encourage The Young Ones: Inspiring Students To Volunteer

January 9, 2017

Guest post by Nicole Boyer

Volunteering is more than spending one’s time actively participating in selfless acts or activities that benefit other people. It has a greater impact on society as a whole. Volunteers are of great help to the community as they immerse themselves in a pool of opportunities. These opportunities are one reason why we need to encourage more students to volunteer.

By volunteering, students develop life skills and become well-rounded individuals.

Starting young provides an opportunity for students to learn and grow into valuable members of society. They develop life skills as they get immersed in activities that are outside of their comfort zones. They become socially aware and learn to appreciate their life and value what they have.

Volunteering helps students become competent, employable, and better meet their learning objectives.

Volunteering serves as a training ground for honing students’ skills, giving them an edge over those who do not have any volunteer experience. Encourage them to join volunteer programs during school breaks or over the summer.

Employers seek volunteer experience from fresh graduates.

Employers prefer hiring fresh graduates with volunteer experience because it shows commitment and a sense of responsibility. Volunteers are reliable, selfless, responsible, and willing to do more than what is asked—even without monetary compensation. These are qualities that employers look for when hiring fresh graduates.

We’ve outlined a few of the benefits of volunteering. But how do we motivate students to devote more time to volunteer work?

1. Define the purpose.

Defining the real purpose of why they should volunteer is a great way to motivate students. They must understand the real impact of volunteering. Explain the weight of what they’re about to do and how they can make a difference in the world. Give them a purpose and let them take it from there.

2. Allow them to be independent.

Grant them the full autonomy for their choices and decisions. Encouraging independence can help students feel like they are trusted, and by human nature, the more trust being placed to a person, the more responsible they become.

3. Empathize with them.

Most of the time, adults forget to empathize with youth. When one doesn’t feel understood, they will never try to understand. If they are not up to volunteering, don't be discouraged. Try to understand where they are coming from and maybe, both parties will agree to compromise. Sometimes, empathy is all it takes to motivate

4. Lead them by example.

Always walk your talk. Kids, especially teenagers, may not be the best at listening to parents or elders. Yet, they may begin to imitate the actions of adults. If they see adults put their passion into good use, they may be inspired to do the same.

5. Provide fun learning activities.

Some students think that volunteer work is boring, tiring, and requires too much time and physical strength. Fun is one of the best motivators. Add fun to your volunteer opportunity by incorporating games and competitions.

6. Provide positive feedback and recognize their efforts.

Feeling unappreciated is the best way to kill motivation, especially when you are doing something that is actually making a difference. When you tell people you appreciate what they do, they tend to do more of it. Recognize their efforts and they will work harder.

Universities and educational institutions can show their appreciation of student volunteers’ efforts by giving them extra credit.

Author Bio:  Nicole Boyer is a web designer and contributing blogger for several websites. She is dedicated to making this world a better place. Nicole believes that by helping each other we can go much further. 

Topics: volunteer engagement

Written by Guest Contributer

This article was written by a VolunteerMatch Guest Contributor.

Previous Post

9 Fantastic Reasons To Volunteer During The Holidays

How Volunteer Programs Improve Employee Retention

• Impact Sector news
• Write a guest post
• Make a charitable contribution
• Find a volunteer opportunity
• CSR Platforms

Organization

• City Guides

Support & Resources

• Customer Support
• Pricing & Packages

Latest Blog Post

5 volunteer tasks to delegate at your next nonprofit event.

© VolunteerMatch. A 501(C)(3) Organization. EIN: 77-0395654.

10 Reasons Why Students Should Do Volunteer Work

In General by Think Student Editor September 4, 2022 Leave a Comment

Volunteer work, by definition, is classed as any form of work where a person willingly gives up their time and effort for free in order to help those around them. It comes in many different forms, whether that be offering a service, supporting people in need, or protesting for a better world. We all know the benefits volunteers bring to our society. What most people don’t know is how doing volunteer work could benefit them. Especially as a student, knowing how volunteering has the potential make a difference to your own life could persuade you to start helping others.

Keep reading to discover the top 10 reasons why volunteering benefits students who partake, as well as when Volunteers’ Week will take place in 2023.

What are the top 10 reasons to volunteer as a student?

Volunteering is an excellent, enriching experience for all people, no matter their age. There are endless reasons as to why you should volunteer as a student. Below are just ten reasons why volunteering is a massively beneficial experience, particularly for people who are still in school and university.

1. Students have the spare time for volunteering which adults may not

It is no secret that students have busy schedules. There are very few hours left in the day for most pupils in school and at university. However, whilst adults may not have as much work to complete at work, they must complete tasks like washing clothes, ironing and cleaning the house to name a few.

Not having to carry out household chores such as these frees up a little bit of spare time which students may choose to spend volunteering. This is an opportunity which gets progressively more difficult to fit in as you get older, so taking the chance to volunteer in your youth is a good idea.

Although students are usually very independent people, they are still not completely self-sufficient. Your parents will continue to supply you with necessities such as food, water and heat until the age 18. This means that although getting a job would earn some extra pocket money, it is not a necessity and so unpaid work is possible during your student years.

2. Volunteering gives students a chance to give something back

As a student, especially if you attend a state or other public school, your entire education will have been funded by the UK government. However, this budget is created through the collection of taxes in your local area. Therefore, the people in your local community have effectively paid for your entire education.

For lots of students, helping in the local community is a way to give back and say thank you to the people around them . By offering your time, it may not seem like much, but the adults in your local community around you will be very appreciative and will be further encouraged to help you out in the future, should you need it.

There is also the opportunity to make a difference in your local community if you think it needs it. For example, in towns which are subject to pollution, litter-picking for a few hours a week will create a nicer space for both you and others around you.

3. It can fit around your schedule

Students obviously have busy schedules, as has already been mentioned. However, the beauty of volunteering is that, unlike a job, the hours will be much more flexible. Every hour of every day, there is always someone in need, and so as a volunteer, you do not need to fit perfectly into a schedule. You just need to offer up an hour or two whenever you’re free.

Volunteering does not necessarily have to be a repeated experience either. Any centre needing volunteers would be very grateful for whatever time you can spare, whether that just be an hour every couple of weeks or a one-off day in the summer holidays.

Every little thing helps! It may not seem like it, but any work that you do will help to make a difference.

4. Volunteer work is available in all sectors

One of the main benefits of volunteering is that you can find opportunities in almost every sector. Although jobs provide you with a small source of income, the most common student jobs are in restaurant and supermarket settings. They teach general workplace skills but are not particularly enjoyable.

As a volunteer, you have the advantage of being able to choose where you would like the help out. For example, animal-lovers will flock to the dog shelters. On the other hand, those who enjoy organisation may like disaster relief in other countries or food banks closer to home.

Volunteering doesn’t require any experience so you can start to work in environments where you would not usually be allowed to. For example, a doctor must undergo years of training before being allowed into the workplace, but hospital volunteers can start helping straight away.

5. Volunteering is a great example of work experience

Work experience is vital for all students to acquire. It gives you a great taste of what a career is like and how to function in a workplace. Having work experience massively increases your chances of gaining well-paid work in your chosen career sector in the future.

Having work experience also allows you to prove your strong ambition and passion for the career sector, which employers like to see. For more information about the importance of work experience, read this article from UCAS or for more examples of how to do work experience, click here .

6. You can gain transferrable skills for the workplace and life in general

As well as being great work experience, volunteering allows you to gain workplace skills which can be applied in the future.

Future employers love to see skills like communication and teamwork which you can gain from volunteering . Even if you participate in volunteering which has no relation to your future career path, these transferrable skills are highly desirable.

On top of gaining expertise for the workplace, you’ll pick up skills for life as well. Things like commitment, gratitude and making good first impressions are all essential for navigating your way through adult life.

This article provides more information on the transferrable skills volunteering can provide, and some other options to gain these skills.

7. Volunteering looks great on personal statements and CVs

As has been said in the last two points, volunteering provides excellent work experience which teaches you essential life and workplace skills.

For this reason, volunteering looks really great on your CV in the future and your personal statement for university applications . It proves that you’re willing to commit to helping other people expecting no monetary reward in return.

8. You can meet new people through volunteer work

As a student, it’s natural that you’ll want to spend every spare minute when you’re not working going out with friends. However, if no-one is available, you may feel isolated and a little bit lonely.

By going out volunteering, you can meet new people and make more friends whilst helping other people in need. You might even find an opportunity for future paid work through networking with the people you meet.

9. Your mental wellbeing can improve whilst helping other people

Although volunteering is great for setting up future employment opportunities, it can also be excellent for your mental wellbeing. You will become more grateful for your own way of life after seeing those who aren’t so fortunate, and it may put things into perspective for you.

Working with other people who depend on you can be so good for your own self-esteem and confidence! It can prove that you can make a difference to someone else’s life, which is extremely rewarding.

10. Volunteering is fun!

There are lots of great reasons to do volunteering, but more importantly than anything else, it’s a fun way to relax. When choosing a centre to volunteer at, make sure that it is doing something you enjoy because the benefits will not ring true if you don’t love every minute.

When is Volunteers’ Week 2023?

In the United Kingdom, Volunteers’ Week is celebrated on an annual basis, promoting the benefits of volunteering. It helps people throughout the country to see how volunteering provides a great opportunity to improve the lives of others around you whilst also improving your own happiness.

The main focus of the week is to thank you to those volunteers who dedicate their time to helping others without expecting anything in return. However, it also promotes the benefits of volunteering and introduces some of the opportunities available for people of all ages, including students. If you are interested in volunteering in the future, Volunteers’ Week is a great place to start.

Volunteers’ week runs from the 1 st -7 th of June every year. This means that in 2023, the week runs from a Thursday until the following Wednesday. This article on NationalToday has more information about Volunteers’ week. Alternatively, you can visit the Volunteers Week website here to read more about all-year volunteering opportunities. There is also a student volunteer week that runs around February every year. To find out more check out this article by Think Student.

Benefits of a Volunteering Essay Sample

The main advantage of the following volunteering essay sample is that you can use it to write your own paper. If you have difficulties with writing, this essay will help you.

What Are the Benefits of Volunteering and Giving Back? Volunteering means that you willingly give your free time for a cause. You are not paid for volunteer work, but can help people or animals in need, or the environment. But how does the volunteer benefit from volunteering? What do volunteers gain from doing this? 1. Improves your social and relationship skills 2. Improves your well-being 3. Gives new experiences for your career 4. Makes you feel self-fulfilled Improves Your Social and Relationship Skills When you volunteer, you will meet new people with similar interests and have new connections. In the future, these people might support you and help you when you are in need. Volunteering helps you practice and develop your social skills especially if you are reserved (Segal & Robinson). If you volunteer as a group with friends or family, it boosts your relationship with each other as you collaborate in your volunteer work. It also improves teamwork in general whether you are working with people you know or with new people. Improves Your Well-Being Volunteering aids in fighting stress, anxiety, and even in combating depression. It also redirects your attention away from your daily tasks, thus helping you to clear out your mind and feel relaxed. When you connect with people, you will have a support system to help in combating depression, and you will feel less lonely and isolated. It also improves your outlook in life. Meanwhile, working with animals in shelters can ease stress and uplift your mood (Segal & Robinson). Physically, volunteer work makes you more active, especially in a crisis or in emergencies. It also helps to burn fats, as well (Fritz). For seniors, it reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This improves the elasticity of the brain, according to studies from the Journal of Gerontology (Fritz). Moreover, it slows down aging, as seniors feel younger when they are active. Gives New Experiences for Your Career You can volunteer for work that is related to your dream job and add this as working experience in your resume. You can also add the skills in your resume and discuss this during the interview. Some volunteer work needs specific skills like project management, public speaking, and other communication skills. For fresh graduates, volunteer jobs could already serve as work experience since most of them do not have paid working experience yet. Even if your volunteer work is not related to your dream job, some soft skills such as being a team player, responsiveness, and being people-oriented can be added to your cover letter and interview. Makes You Self-Fulfilled When you volunteer, you feel rewarded in assisting others. Making a difference in someone else’s life improves your self-worth and self-esteem, as this can make you feel that you have a purpose in life. Making strangers feel better also makes you feel better and happier. Also, when you willingly work on something that you are passionate about, it energizes you. It is also a way to find out your interest and passion. You can also work for free on similar jobs that you would have liked to work before but were unable because of some criteria you did not meet. A good example of this is working as a reserve for military service. Volunteer work may not make you rich but it is the fulfillment that makes you feel complete as a person. In conclusion, volunteering does not only benefit the recipient of the help, but also the volunteer. You may not receive money from it, but the experience itself is enough payment for the work that you have done. Works Cited Fritz, Joanne. “15 Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering that Will Inspire You.” The Balance Small Business, 24 June 2019, www.thebalancesmb.com/unexpected-benefits-of-volunteering-4132453. Accessed 29 July 2019. Segal, Jeanne, and Lawrence Robinson. “Volunteering and Its Surprising Benefits.” Help Guide, June 2019, www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits.htm. Accessed 29 July 2019.

From this volunteering essay, you can get valuable ideas and thoughts for your writing. In addition, you can see how to structure the paper and format it in the right way. Our samples always give hints on how to write a paper on the particular topic, but never give direct instructions, because your paper should have your own voice. If it turns out that you don’t know how to start your writing, you can always check out our blog to find helpful guides. We believe that on our blog, you can find all the necessary information that will help you with your writing.

If you can’t write your volunteering essay, then a necessary step should be to place an order on WritingCheap. Despite the fact that there are many cheating writing services, there is no need to be afraid of using our service, because we do everything possible to satisfy customers’ needs. For example, our writers write unique papers, stick to customers’ requirements, and follow academic standards. Moreover, they writer papers of different academic levels, such as high school, college, university, and so on. At the same time, you won’t spend much if you decide to get help from our cheap custom writing service . Don’t hesitate any minute.

~ out of 10 - average quality score

~ writers active

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Life Experiences — Volunteering

Volunteering Essays

Persuasive speech about volunteering, why i want to volunteer, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

My Volunteering Experience

My experience in volunteer service at green seattle partnership, impact of volunteering on community, a reflection on my volunteering experience, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

My Experience Volunteering at The Salvation Army

The importance of volunteering in my life, the benefits of volunteering for both students and communities, my hobby of volunteering at care centers, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

What Motivates People to Do Volunteer Work

The benefits of volunteering in relation to job, education and community, my volunteering experience: a journey of giving, volunteer service and its effect on the public, volunteerism: motivations and benefits for society, my personal experience of volunteering and it's impact on my life, my volunteer experience: personal reflections as a volunteer, forced volunteering: taking away the purpose of volunteering, my experience of volunteering at capital caring, weighing the pros and cons of volunteerism, the benefits of volunteerism for the society, reflection on participation in education mission for refugees kids, volunteerism impact on hospital performance in canada, my volunteer experience at the l.a. food bank, satisfaction, commitment and retention in volunteer practice, elaboration of what i gained from my volunteer experience, benefits and trends in volunteering, benefits and lessons learned from volunteering, volunteering in international sports and volunteer involvement in sports management, my volunteer experience in the 'meals on wheels' program.

Volunteering refers to the selfless and voluntary act of offering one's time, skills, or resources for the benefit of others or a particular cause, without expecting financial compensation or personal gain. It is driven by a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of individuals, communities, or organizations, and to make a positive impact on society.

The history of volunteering traces back to ancient civilizations, where communities came together to support one another in times of need. However, the modern concept of volunteering emerged during the 19th century. Here is a brief overview of the history of volunteering: Voluntary acts of service can be found throughout history, such as religious charity work in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In medieval Europe, religious organizations and guilds played a significant role in providing assistance to the needy. In the 19th century, philanthropic movements gained momentum. Individuals like Florence Nightingale and Clara Barton pioneered organized volunteer efforts in healthcare and disaster relief, respectively. This era also saw the establishment of charitable organizations and social reform movements. The World Wars spurred a surge in volunteerism as communities rallied together to support soldiers and civilians. After the wars, volunteering expanded into various sectors, including community development, education, and environmental conservation. In the 20th century, volunteering became more structured and professionalized. Nonprofit organizations, such as the Red Cross and United Way, grew in prominence, offering organized volunteer programs and opportunities. With the advent of the internet and social media, volunteering has become more accessible and widespread. Online platforms connect volunteers with organizations and facilitate virtual volunteering, expanding the reach and impact of volunteering efforts. Today, volunteering is a global phenomenon, deeply ingrained in societies worldwide.

Volunteering in the United States plays a vital role in supporting communities, addressing social issues, and fostering civic engagement. It involves individuals dedicating their time, skills, and resources to serve others and make a positive impact on society. Volunteering in the US takes various forms, ranging from local community service initiatives to national and international organizations. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, environmental conservation, disaster relief, and social services. Volunteers contribute in diverse ways, such as mentoring youth, assisting with food distribution, participating in environmental cleanups, supporting homeless shelters, and providing medical assistance. The importance of volunteering is evident in the benefits it brings to both individuals and communities. For volunteers, it offers an opportunity to develop new skills, gain valuable experiences, expand their social networks, and enhance personal growth. Communities benefit from the selfless contributions of volunteers, as it helps address unmet needs, strengthens social cohesion, and promotes positive change.

1. Community Service 2. Skill-Based Volunteering 3. Environmental Volunteering 4. Crisis and Disaster Relief 5. International Volunteering 6. Virtual Volunteering

Mother Teresa: Known for her selfless dedication to serving the poor and marginalized, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity, an organization that provides aid to the needy worldwide. Her compassionate work earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi, the influential leader of India's independence movement, was a strong advocate for volunteerism and community service. He promoted the concept of "Seva," which means selfless service to others, emphasizing the importance of giving back to society. Martin Luther King Jr.: A prominent figure in the American civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. inspired others to engage in volunteer efforts to address racial inequality and social justice issues. His message of equality and nonviolent activism continues to resonate today. Jane Addams: Recognized as the mother of social work, Jane Addams co-founded Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago, which provided education, healthcare, and social services to immigrants and the poor. Her dedication to improving living conditions and advocating for social reform laid the foundation for modern social work.

Personal Growth: Volunteering provides opportunities for personal development and growth. It allows individuals to acquire new skills, expand their knowledge, and gain valuable experience in various fields. Volunteering also helps boost self-confidence, improve communication and teamwork skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities. Social Connections: Volunteering offers a chance to meet and connect with diverse groups of people, fostering social interactions and building meaningful relationships. It helps individuals expand their network, create lasting friendships, and develop a sense of belonging within their communities. Sense of Purpose and Satisfaction: Engaging in volunteer work gives individuals a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Contributing to a cause they care about and making a positive impact on the lives of others can bring great satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. Community Engagement: Volunteers play a vital role in building stronger communities. By dedicating their time and efforts, they help address local needs, promote social cohesion, and create a sense of unity and shared responsibility within neighborhoods and society at large. Health and Well-being: Volunteering has been linked to improved physical and mental health. It can reduce stress, combat feelings of loneliness and depression, and increase overall well-being. Engaging in volunteer activities that align with personal interests and passions can bring joy and a sense of fulfillment. Professional Development: Volunteering can enhance career prospects and professional development. It allows individuals to gain relevant work experience, develop transferable skills, and demonstrate their commitment and dedication. Volunteering can also provide networking opportunities and open doors to new job prospects. Making a Difference: One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others and contribute to meaningful causes. By lending a helping hand, volunteers can bring about positive social change, support vulnerable populations, and contribute to the betterment of society.

1. According to the World Giving Index 2021, 31% of people worldwide reported volunteering their time, with the highest rates found in Indonesia, Kenya, and Nigeria. 2. The estimated economic value of a volunteer hour in the United States was $28.54 in 2020, highlighting the significant contribution volunteers make to the economy. 3. In the United States, approximately 25% of young people aged 16 to 24 engage in volunteer work, contributing to community development, education, and environmental initiatives. 4. Research has shown that volunteering can have positive effects on physical and mental health, reducing the risk of depression, improving well-being, and increasing life satisfaction. 5. Many companies encourage their employees to volunteer, with 59% of Fortune 500 companies offering formal volunteer programs. Corporate volunteering promotes team-building, employee engagement, and social responsibility. 6. Volunteers play a crucial role in disaster response and recovery. During the 2017 hurricane season, for example, the American Red Cross deployed over 50,000 volunteers to assist affected communities. 7. Studies have found a correlation between volunteering and increased longevity, as well as higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Volunteering is an important and meaningful topic to write an essay about due to its numerous benefits and contributions to society. By exploring the subject, one can delve into the profound impact volunteers have on individuals, communities, and even global issues. Firstly, volunteering promotes social responsibility and civic engagement. It encourages individuals to actively participate in addressing social challenges and making positive changes in their communities. It fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of belonging, leading to a more inclusive and connected society. Secondly, volunteering offers personal growth and development opportunities. It allows individuals to acquire new skills, gain practical experience, and enhance their self-confidence. Moreover, it provides a platform for individuals to explore their passions and interests, leading to personal fulfillment and self-discovery. Additionally, volunteering plays a vital role in addressing societal needs that may not be adequately met by government or other institutions. It contributes to areas such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and disaster relief, making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Furthermore, volunteering can have a ripple effect, inspiring and motivating others to get involved and create positive change. It serves as a catalyst for social transformation, as the collective efforts of volunteers can lead to long-lasting impact and sustainable development.

1. Brudney, J. L., & Meijs, L. C. (Eds.). (2014). The Oxford handbook of volunteering, giving, and philanthropy. Oxford University Press. 2. Clary, E. G., Snyder, M., Ridge, R. D., Copeland, J., Stukas, A. A., Haugen, J., & Miene, P. (1998). Understanding and assessing the motivations of volunteers: A functional approach. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 74(6), 1516-1530. 3. Handy, F., Cnaan, R. A., Brudney, J. L., Ascoli, U., & Meijs, L. C. (Eds.). (2010). Public participation in volunteerism: A comparative analysis. Routledge. 4. Holmes, K., & Jones, E. (Eds.). (2017). The Routledge handbook of volunteering. Routledge. 5. Howlett, S., & Dickinson, H. (2009). Volunteer decision-making: What prompts a person to volunteer? Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, 38(2), 266-288. 6. Hustinx, L., Cnaan, R. A., & Handy, F. (2010). Navigating theories of volunteering: A hybrid map for a complex phenomenon. Journal for the Theory of Social Behaviour, 40(4), 410-434. 7. McNamara, T. K. (2008). The sociology of volunteering. Springer Science & Business Media. 8. Smith, D. H., Stebbins, R. A., & Dover, M. A. (2006). A dictionary of nonprofit terms and concepts. Indiana University Press. 9. Smith, K. R., Holmes, K., & Mervyn, K. (2010). Volunteering and society in the 21st century. Palgrave Macmillan. 10. Wilson, J. (2012). Volunteering. Annual Review of Sociology, 38, 519-539.

Relevant topics

• Personal Experience
• Life Changing Experience
• Law of Life
• Childhood Memories
• Why I Want To Be A Nurse
• Expectations

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Volunteering: How Helping Others Helps You

Find the right college for you., how volunteerism helps others and you.

Volunteering has a positive effect on your community—and it’s good for you too! Ben, a first-year college student who participated in volunteer fundraising, calls it, “a win-win situation.”

"You feel good because you're helping others,” he said, “Plus, the people you’re helping are getting their needs met.”

Reasons to Choose Volunteer Work as an Extracurricular Activity

Giving back to your community is valuable in itself. Helping others also offers you many benefits. For example, it can help you learn more about yourself while exploring new interests. Volunteering in your community can even put you on the path to a career . Read on to learn more reasons to volunteer.

Gain Valuable Life Experience and Skills

Whether you build houses for people with homes or mail flyers for a local politician, you’re gaining real-world experience. In addition, while volunteering in your community, you have the opportunity to explore college majors as well as career interests.

For example, as a first-year premed student, Gregory spent his summer volunteering at a local health clinic. He picked a clinic in a Spanish-speaking area so he could practice his language skills while observing medical professionals. He also took time to ask the doctors questions.

Meet Interesting People and Build Contacts

You receive valuable insights from the people you’re helping as well as your fellow volunteers. Also, you benefit from exposure to the different perspectives of the people you work with while volunteering.

Get Academic Credit

Some high schools offer academic credit for volunteer work through service learning. This is a program that offers hands-on learning through service to the community. To find out if your school offers service learning, talk to your school counselor.

Show Colleges That You’re Committed

Your volunteer work showcases your interests and character to college admissions officers. Listing your volunteer work on college applications conveys the leadership skills and value you’ll bring to their campus.

Make a Difference

It’s eye-opening to realize that doing even small things can have a big impact on others. Rhea, a college sophomore, remembers a visit she made to a senior home with her middle school’s choir.

“An elderly man in a wheelchair looked up at me after the last strains of ‘Frosty the Snowman’ and said in a gravelly voice, ‘You’ve made my day. This means so much.’” She recalls, “No one had ever thanked me in such a way for doing something so small, and a stranger no less!”

What to Do Before You Volunteer

To get the most out of your experience, ask yourself these questions before you get involved with an organization:

• What have I done in the past that I’ve enjoyed?
• What do I want to do as a volunteer?—And what would I rule out doing?
• How much time can I commit?
• What talents or skills can I offer?
• What kinds of people do I want to work with?
• What would I most like to learn by volunteering?
• How can I help my community as a student?

How to Get Involved in Volunteering

Here are some ways to get started:

• Visit the websites of service organizations in your area to see what opportunities/needs they have for volunteers. Or call programs based in your community to ask if they need help.
• Visit your town’s website. It may list volunteer opportunities in your area and offer inspiration on how to help others in your community.
• Contact a local museum or other types of cultural institutions that can point you in the right direction.
• Ask libraries, religious organizations, hospitals, and community colleges if they sponsor any volunteer groups.

Check out these websites to learn more about causes and to find volunteer opportunities near you:

• United We Serve
• Network for Good
• VolunteerMatch
• DoSomething.org

What kind of volunteering looks good on college applications?

Volunteer work that centers on helping your community looks good on college applications. It’s a good idea to think about how to help others in your community while considering your own interests. If you like to work with animals, volunteering at your local animal shelter is a great idea. If you want to learn more about the medical field, volunteer in a local hospital or medical clinic.

Do colleges check if you actually volunteered?

Some college admissions officers are more diligent than others about confirming volunteer work on student applications. But if you list volunteer activities you didn’t participate in, you’re running the risk of being caught in a lie. If this happens, college admissions officers are going to wonder whether you have any other false information on your application. A great way to show that your claims are genuine is to write about your volunteering experiences in your college essay.

What age group is most likely to volunteer?

According to a 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics survey, the group most likely to volunteer are people aged 65 and older. People aged 15–24, which includes most high schoolers, volunteer about half as often as their 65 and older counterparts. By volunteering and helping others while in high school, you're showing a willingness to stand out, both statistically and otherwise, from your peers.

What does volunteering teach you?

Volunteering can teach you empathy for others and how your unique skills and talents can really help your community. Volunteering also gives you the opportunity to explore your interests and potential careers, as well as learning from professionals in the field. From picking up roadside litter to walking a dog at the animal shelter, your time volunteering can make a difference!

Related Articles

Surprising Benefits of Volunteering

With a busy student life , it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, if you want to boost your educational experience and learn new skills , volunteering can be a rewarding option. Sometimes even more helpful than networking events or internship, it offers plenty of surprising benefits to students. Charity work will help you reduce stress , find friends and even advance your career . Learn more about the benefits of helping others and get started!

#1: Learn or Develop a New Skill

It is never too late to learn something new and volunteering is a great way to develop a unique skill or discover something you are good at. Unlike internships, that usually involve repetitive tasks, you can adjust your position to meet your personal goals . No matter what type of volunteering work you do, you may be certain to gain the following skills:

• self-motivation
• problem-solving
• time management
• goal-setting
• critical thinking

By volunteering, you will invest time into really useful and engaging experience.

#2: Stay Physically and Mentally Healthy

Volunteering is good both for your mind and body. It has a profound effect on your psychological well-being, reduces stress and anxiety, combats depression and makes you happy. You will feel yourself better in regular contact with others and experience a natural sense of accomplishment. The better you feel about yourself, a more positive view you’ll have on your life and future goals. Moreover, as a volunteer, you’ll be more physically active and fit, strengthen your bones and muscles and as a result, reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart attack and diabetes.

#3: Make New Friends

Volunteering provides a great opportunity to develop your social skills as you are regularly meeting with people who have the similar interests. Even if you are shy and find it difficult to make new contacts, you’ll have a chance to develop and practice your relationship skills. You’ll meet a lot of new people, especially if you are new to the area, and will have an opportunity to strengthen your support network and make long term friends. You may be surprised at how genuine these friends are.

#4: Save Money

Volunteering can even help you save money . Many organizations need volunteers to help them host different events, including various performances, concerts and festivals. Devote your time and you can receive admission to events that interest you without buying the expensive tickets. Even better, you won’t need to stand in the long queues and worry about getting the tickets in time! Just make sure to register in advance because most music events and theater plays usually have a long waiting list of volunteers wishing to participate.

#5: Find Love

That might be really surprising but volunteering can help you find love. Yes, it’s true. Studies show that people prefer to go on a date with another volunteer than with someone they’ve met through a friend. Volunteering activities will take a lot of your time, so there are more chances to meet that special someone. It’s no secret that people usually find romance at workplace, so why wouldn’t you?

#6: Advance Your Career

Volunteering will help you get experience in your area of interest and meet people in this field. It is also an amazing way to try yourself in a new position without making a long-term commitment. You may volunteer in an organization you’d like to work after graduation and gain important experience and knowledge you’ll need later. Most volunteering options offer extensive training, so you’ll have a chance to develop the skills essential for your future career and raise awareness for self-improvement and professional growth.

#7: Live Longer

Do you want to live longer? Studies show that volunteers have better overall health and lower mortality rate. They find it easier to manage everyday tasks and have outstanding thinking skills even when they become older. That’s why if you want to live a happy and long life, consider taking volunteer work in addition to your vitamins!

#8: Understand Yourself Better

Trying yourself as a volunteer is useful for developing your personality. This experience will help you to understand whether you are a people person, whether you like working with other people, whether you would like to dedicate your life to helping others, and other important things about yourself. Also, you’ll find out what skills you already have and would like to develop.

#9: Give Up Bad Habits

This can be surprising but volunteering help to struggle with bad habits. Thus, according to Make A Difference Day Survey, ICM Research 2004, 30% of smokers aged 18-24 claimed that they begin to smoke less due to volunteering and 22% of the same age group said that they reduced the amount of alcohol they take. How is that possible? The answer is quite simple: each addiction is developed because a person in some period of his or her life starts feeling incomplete. Volunteering helps people to fulfill their lives with meaning so that they don’t feel incomplete like they used to.

Volunteering is an enjoyable and simple way to test your passions and interests. It can provide you with refreshed creativity and inspiration that can greatly help in your personal and professional life.

Related Posts

WAIT! Do you need help with your essay?

Enter your email to get 15% off your first order.

The discount is in your inbox.

Florida State University

FSU | Florida State University News

Site Navigation

Global navigation.

Florida State University News

The Official News Source of Florida State University

Home / News / Students & Campus Life / Transforming Tallahassee: Florida State University students contribute $7.5 million in volunteer hours

Transforming Tallahassee: Florida State University students contribute $7.5 million in volunteer hours

Florida State University students play a pivotal role in supporting the Tallahassee economy. But beyond their economic contributions, students also make a significant impact through community engagement and service.

During the 2022-2023 academic year, more than 4,250 FSU students dedicated nearly 236,000 hours of service, worth an estimated $7.5 million, to nonprofit organizations.

“By volunteering and giving back, students can make a real difference in the lives of others and help build a stronger, more connected community,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs. “Acts of service not only benefit the organization and recipients, but also instill a sense of civic responsibility and social awareness in students. Students who volunteer are nurturing their own personal growth and development, as well as helping shape the future of our community.”

Local agencies served by FSU students in recent years include The Kearney Center , Project Annie and Second Harvest of the Big Bend Food Bank .

Positive impact

As the region’s primary source for charitable food, Second Harvest provides healthy food for those facing hunger and food insecurity throughout the 16-county Big Bend service area. They say they could not accomplish their vision without the help of FSU students.

“The value that Florida State students bring to Second Harvest is immeasurable,” said Ashleigh Wilson, communications coordinator at Second Harvest. “Students at FSU often help coordinate food drives, help with our daily operations and commit to consistently serving our community directly.”

Second Harvest’s facility serves as the storage and distribution depot for more than 149 smaller frontline agency partners in their efforts to feed the hungry and educate the community about the fight to end hunger.

Kate Ash, a recent graduate from the Dedman College of Hospitality , found out about Second Harvest through a Leadership in Groups and Communities (LDR 2162) class during her sophomore year. The course is offered through the Leadership Studies program in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences .

During her time with Second Harvest, Ash served as a volunteer and intern, even bringing in groups from her sorority to donate their time. She has helped coordinate volunteers and organized the volunteer appreciation week.

“While it can be hard for students to take the time to volunteer, it gets you outside of your bubble,” Ash said. “You’ll realize that you are not only making a positive impact on the community, but that it can make a positive impact on you.”

How students find opportunities

The Center for Leadership and Service , the campus hub for service, is charged with helping students develop skills and knowledge to become more effective leaders and engage responsibly with communities. Through various programs and resources, the center aims to foster and sustain collaborative relationships among students, the FSU campus and the broader community.

EngageTLH , one program the center offers, fosters meaningful connections between the FSU and Tallahassee communities with the goal of making service accessible for students. The program offers service trips to community partner agencies on various days and times.

Trips have addressed such needs as animal care, K-12 academic development, environmental sustainability, elder care, food insecurity and homelessness.

“Students only commit to one trip when they sign up but often return when they find a cause they are passionate about,” said Maria-Paula McIntyre, who coordinates the EngageTLH program. “Many go on to take leadership roles, guiding other students through service as trained facilitators and helping them understand the community needs their service helps alleviate.”

Last year, about 800 students went on 160 service trips to 19 local agencies through the EngageTLH program, providing an economic impact of $48,700, according to the Independent Sector’s Value of Volunteer Time Report.

Joi Phillips, director of the Center for Leadership & Service, emphasized the importance of the reciprocal relationship between FSU students and the broader community.

“We appreciate the community allowing our students the opportunity to learn from and with them,” Phillips said. “We know that experiential learning as a high-impact practice provides students with the skills to serve as leaders in their communities and to make sustainable change that lasts beyond them and their time in Tallahassee.”

The center also offers programs such as the Service Scholar program, Service Leadership Seminar and the Conversation Café that connect students with opportunities focusing on the areas of leadership, service and civic engagement.

Sophomore Hillary Harbauer has used the center’s resources to get involved. She is a part of the Service Scholar program, is a facilitator for weekly service trips through EngageTLH, serves as a community ambassador and mentors students in service leadership Engage 100 courses.

As a peer mentor through Engage 100, Harbauer facilitates classes that prepare new students to venture into service opportunities in the Tallahassee community.

“Whether we are learning about the Community Ambassadors program or EngageTLH, I support my students by sharing my experiences and sharing the insights I have learned and opportunities that I have found being a part of these programs,” Harbauer said.

She said that a large part of her undergraduate journey so far has been recognizing that there is much to be learned from those in communities different from your own: “My main driving factor is that I understand what it feels like to be overlooked based on your circumstances.”

Solving problems with research

Many FSU students choose to get involved with undergraduate research through the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (CRE) or pursue master’s and doctoral degrees through The Graduate School with a research focus on a particular issue. Some of these research projects grapple with issues that face the greater Tallahassee community, initiate conversations and propose collaborative possible solutions.

“Conducting community-informed research has the potential to benefit the student and the collaborating community in powerful ways,” said Latika Young, director of the CRE. “Beyond the typical research skills of design and analysis, students conducting research with and within communities practice the additional skills of networking and partnership development, self-reflexivity and communication skills, among others. These research projects often have instrumental impacts on communities by encouraging stakeholder engagement, modifying behavior and interventions and even informing policy and legislation.”

Senior Alycia Drapcho worked on the research project “GIS Analysis of Heavy Precipitation Events & Contamination in Lake Munson.” Community wastewater spills have the potential to adversely affect community health and water supplies. Drapcho utilized geographic information systems, to examine the possible spread of contaminants beyond initial spill points and the effectiveness of cleanup efforts.

“I think it means focusing on how the bigger, general issues like pollution are affecting us on a smaller, local scale and presenting that in an effort to raise awareness,” Drapcho said. “I was drawn to this project because, like I said, hearing how big issues affect us and not really being able to see it on a small scale, made me more interested to better grasp those concepts. FSU’s research facilities and connections with local researchers allowed us access to up-to-date data, as well as firsthand experiences and insights from researchers familiar with our subject matter and how it has affected the Tallahassee area.”

Camila Aponte, a recent graduate, worked on the research project “Assessing Public Participation in Redevelopment Projects: A Case Study of Tallahassee, Florida.” Her research focused on the social impact of participatory tools in neighborhoods undergoing redevelopment projects and resulted in proposed policy recommendations for future projects.

She says that the CRE and DeVoe L. Moore Center have provided her invaluable guidance throughout her research journey.

“Engaging in research with the Tallahassee community gave me insight into communities that have been impacted by local decision-making for generations,” Aponte said. “Working on this project allowed me to look at a topic that had never been explored before and having the opportunity to work and learn alongside other students, a team leader and mentor.”

Benefits of experiential learning

FSU student-service opportunities provide immense value to the community while also allowing students to gain valuable insights and have formative experiences that go beyond their time at Florida State University.

Experiential learning allows students to apply and strengthen their knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences outside the classroom. Other community engagement opportunities exist through internships, international study, creative activities and coursework.

“We’re grateful to give FSU students these unique opportunities to get outside the classroom, engage with the broader community and deepen their understanding of the issues that affect our region,” said Joe O’Shea, associate provost and dean of Undergraduate Studies. “This is the kind of work that inspires students to become the leaders of their generation and use their talents to make a lasting impact in the world.”

For more information about experiential learning opportunities at FSU, visit studentsuccess.fsu.edu .

Essays That Worked

The essays are a place to show us who you are and who you’ll be in our community.

It’s a chance to add depth to something that is important to you and tell the admissions committee more about your background or goals. Below you’ll find selected examples of essays that “worked,” as nominated by our admissions committee. In each of these essays, students were able to share stories from their everyday lives to reveal something about their character, values, and life that aligned with the culture and values at Hopkins.

Read essays that worked from Transfer applicants .

Hear from the class of 2027.

These selections represent just a few examples of essays we found impressive and helpful during the past admissions cycle. We hope these essays inspire you as you prepare to compose your own personal statements. The most important thing to remember is to be original as you share your own story, thoughts, and ideas with us.

Ordering the Disorderly

Ellie’s essay skillfully uses the topic of entropy as an extended metaphor. Through it, we see reflections about who they are and who they aspire to be.

Pack Light, But Be Prepared

In Pablo’s essay, the act of packing for a pilgrimage becomes a metaphor for the way humans accumulate experiences in their life’s journey and what we can learn from them. As we join Pablo through the diverse phases of their life, we gain insights into their character and values.

Tikkun Olam

Julieta illustrates how the concept of Tikkun Olam, “a desire to help repair the world,” has shaped their passions and drives them to pursue experiences at Hopkins.

Kashvi’s essay encapsulates a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and the invaluable teachings of Rock, their 10-year-old dog. Through the lens of their companionship, Kashvi walked us through valuable lessons on responsibility, friendship, patience, and unconditional love.

Classical Reflections in Herstory

Maddie’s essay details their intellectual journey using their love of Greek classics. They incorporate details that reveal the roots of their academic interests: storytelling, literary devices, and translation. As their essay progresses, so do Maddie’s intellectual curiosities.

My Spotify Playlist

Alyssa’s essay reflects on special memories through the creative lens of Spotify playlists. They use three examples to highlight their experiences with their tennis team, finding a virtual community during the pandemic, and co-founding a nonprofit to help younger students learn about STEM.

More essays that worked

We share essays from previously admitted students—along with feedback from our admissions committee—so you can understand what made them effective and how to start crafting your own.

Application Workshops

Our interactive workshops—on topics like the college search process and essay preparation—will help you build your strongest application when you’re ready to apply.

REGISTER FOR AN APPLICATION WORKSHOP

Application tips in your inbox

Join our mailing list to receive insights from our admissions committee, event invites, and other resources for your college journey.

Virtual Summer Open House

Join us on Saturday, July 13, to see what it’s like to live and learn at the #1 research university.

Quick Links:

• Majors, Minors & Programs
• Application Deadlines & Requirements
• College Planning Guide