As a college student, you already have a packed schedule — with classes, extracurriculars, social activities, and perhaps a part-time job. You may feel like it would be unreasonable to fit anything else into your week. Nonetheless, it’s worth looking into volunteering. Whether you volunteer just occasionally, during your breaks, or on a regular basis throughout the semester, you’ll gain some important benefits. Here are just a few to consider.
1. Make a Difference
Most things in life, you do for yourself. Volunteering allows you to think of others and do something good for the world. This will give you a great sense of satisfaction and purpose.
2. Improve Your Mental Health
Knowing that you’re making a difference is great for your mental health. This is extra important for college students, who are at a higher risk of stress due to academic demands and the challenges of adjusting to a new life away from home. People who volunteer often see improvements to their mental health, including a decrease in depression and anxiety. This even has a knock-on effect on your physical health.
3. Work Experience
If you don’t need to earn money while you’re at college, volunteering may be a great alternative to a part-time job. You may even learn more useful skills than you would by working, especially if you’re able to find a volunteering opportunity in the field you want to enter after you graduate. Plus, volunteering roles tend to involve a variety of duties that will teach you skills like leadership, problem solving, time management, and more.
4. Build Connections
To succeed in the world of work, it’s also crucial to have the right contacts. Volunteering will introduce you to people who share a passion for the same cause and likely have similar interests to you. There’s a good chance that some of them will be able to connect you with potential employers.
5. Find Your Direction
Many college students are unsure about what exactly they want to do after they graduate. Volunteering will show you possibilities you may never have considered. Plus, you’ll discover what kinds of tasks you enjoy doing and which you may like to avoid.
6. Become a More Appealing Job Candidate
Whatever career you end up pursuing, employers will see you as a top choice if you have volunteering experience on your resume. Employers prefer candidates who have volunteered because it’s likely they have gained transferable skills. In addition, volunteering may be a good indicator that you’re the right fit for the company culture if you volunteered for a cause that matches the organization’s values.
Adding something more into your schedule means it’s extra important to find opportunities for relaxation. This is easier when you have your own bedroom in student rentals. St. Catharines has the ideal housing for students who need to focus on their self-care: Foundry Lofts. After a busy day, spend some time with friends in the games room, fireside lounge, or movie theatre or take some time for yourself in your private bedroom or with a workout at the fitness centre. Contact us for information about leases.