Keys to Volunteering as a Media Student

Writer: T'Lijae Hamilton

                                Image by: teamkinetic.co.uk

Have you ever considered what you might want to accomplish before graduating? This

question may not surprise you, as many university students frequently ask themselves this

type of question. However, you should ask yourself, "Have I done any volunteer work that has

helped with my skills?"

Benefits of Volunteering as an University Student

There are so many benefits that we can gain from volunteerism. As university students, it is a

great opportunity for students to acquire proper skills and knowledge from voluntary work.

Students can make new connections and learn skills to help them advance in their careers,  as

well as to feel happier and healthier.

 1. Making Connections 

Are you the type of student who's shy, or are you the social type? Either way, volunteerism is

right for you. Networking is an important part of helping students advance their careers and

social well-being. Students will be able to network with people from various backgrounds who

share similar interests, and most employers will be happy to put volunteers in touch with

people who can assist them in their respective career paths.

2. Learning Leadership Skills

Many people in the real world lack the ability to be true leaders because they have not

learned the various types of leadership styles, nor do they understand the value of

teamwork and responsibility. Volunteering allows you to put your leadership skills to

the test. Learning the roles of a leader will undoubtedly prepare you for the real world

of work. For instance, consider that your employee is granting you the opportunity to

lead a team, and how that would look on your resume. If you keep up your good work,

your prospective employer will be pleased and look forward to promoting you.

3. Determine your Career Objectives.

Oftentimes, you will hear of university students asking themselves if they are choosing the

right career path, and some may end up being happy in the end while others may not. It is

wise to know which career path is right for you, and that is where volunteering comes in. This

way you can discover first hand experiences, where you are in the field of your choice. This will

help you to finalize if you are interested in a particular career. 

Some students may receive first hand experience at their university. For example, Mass

Communication students of Northern Caribbean University (NCU) are sought as prospective

volunteers at Television Jamaica and NCU Media Group in Jamaica.

4. Expand Experience and Knowledge

Volunteering can help you gain new skills and knowledge. It provides hands-on experience,

and you will learn different ways to apply your knowledge from the workplace, as well as what

you have learnt in class. You will be able to broaden your knowledge in the field of your

volunteer project. Employers are always looking for prospective employees who have work

experience and who know what they're doing.

5. Building Resume and Improve Job Prospects 

As third-and final- year students. It is best to understand that your resume represents

you, by communicating your qualifications to potential employers, and also assisting

them in understanding who you are before hiring you. Ensure that your resume stands

out from the other applicants. Therefore, it is important to build your resume with

relevant information that will aid your employer in hiring you. Thus, most jobs seek to

find out if you have done any volunteer work in the past and how you have contributed

to your volunteer projects.