Where are you currently working?
I am currently working on the RBS Global Banking and Markets Graduate Programme, and volunteer part-time as a youth worker with Ansar Youth Project, based in Harrow
What volunteering were you involved with whilst you were at UCL?
I volunteered with the Fitzrovia Neighbourhood Association, conducting social research about the area. In my second and third years, I had experience with mentoring and tutoring through UCL Widening Participation and project management in the Innovations Programme.
What useful skills and experiences did you gain as a volunteer when you were at UCL?
Conducting social research, I gained practical experience analysing and researching Fitzrovia and presenting data in suitable formats, which would then be used for grant funding. Having just completed my first year in Linguistics at the time, this was a new experience for me.
The Clubs2Communities project involved working with many clubs and societies at UCL, and I loved the collaborative aspect of project work and meeting different people in the UCL community who were enthusiastic about volunteering.
Through the Volunteering Services Unit, I was also able to attend training courses around Project Management and presentation skills.
How has volunteering helped you in your career so far?
It has only been one year since I graduated, though I have been able to draw on my experiences as a volunteer in the job application process.
With my experience and knowledge of volunteering opportunities and charities, I helped design a "Community Challenge" project for some graduates at RBS with the charity Fairbridge to facilitate team-working skills outside the workplace. We helped with the redecoration of a youth centre and participated in leadership activities run by the young people who came to the youth centre.
As a youth worker, I am sometimes presented with new situations I may not normally face at work and this has helped me develop problem solving skills and facing new challenges in my role.
What would you say to UCL students considering whether or not to volunteer?
Volunteering gives you the opportunity to gain experience outside of the spectrum of your degree studies, meet new people you may have never met otherwise, develop your transferable skills, and share what you know with others.
Additionally, employers recognise and respect the commitment and experience of volunteering. The skills you use in the community can be applied in a business environment. With the only cost being your time, it's a great investment!