Volunteering whilst studying at Anglia Ruskin University has provided me with many great experiences! It has given me the opportunity to take what I have learnt within my course and apply it in a working setting. This has provided me with invaluable skills that I wouldn’t have otherwise gained from just studying my degree. In interviews I have always been asked about my volunteering experiences and it definitely seems to be something employers are looking for. I believe volunteering has already helped me gain employment and will surely be beneficial in future employment as well. In such a competitive job market, volunteering can really set you apart from other applicants.

Through volunteering I have also met people within the wider community that I wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to meet. This can be a welcome break from the ‘bubble’ of university life and helped me explore the wider city of Cambridge. It is also a great feeling to know that you are contributing to the wider community and really providing an essential service to those who require volunteers.  

Volunteering doesn’t need to be a major commitment. Throughout my time at university I have held numerous volunteering roles that were both weekly and monthly, only requiring a couple of hours of my time. Despite this small commitment, the people you volunteer with are incredibly grateful for your time. I feel I have gained so much both professionally and personally from these few hours of volunteering and would recommend it to anyone!