The benefits of volunteering

So, graduation week is almost over, seven out of our eight officers have graduated and tonight the biggest party of the week will make the other nights out seem small and insignificant. Work-wise it has been another week of net-working, planning and objective setting.

One of the major points I have raised during my campaign was the need for international students to be more involved in Sheffield Volunteering. The benefits of this are numerous and not to be disregarded.

We international students can gain a lot from volunteering. As individuals we get to know the local community, learn about British life and traditions outside the student bubble. It means that when we're asked what life is like in Britain once we get back to our home countries we can speak not only of our experiences as students, but also as citizens of Sheffield.

Volunteering also gives us the opportunity to give something back to the city that is our host for months and years during our studies. Through it we learn vital skills, enhance our CV (in Britain volunteering is often valued higher by employers than basic work) and meet lots of like-minded people.

In the coming weeks I will aim to work in partnership with Claire, our Activities Officer, to offer you the opportunity to get engaged in Sheffield and beyond. It's an opportunity you should not miss!

Congratulations to all our graduates 2009!

Alex