Picture yourself walking into a room of strangers and feeling like you are home. Picture yourself spending a couple of hours doing something worthwhile and understanding that it brightened not only someone else’s day but yours too. That is the magic of college volunteering. 

Most students believe that volunteering is another activity to put on their resume or a means of occupying free time. Volunteering, however, is far greater than this. Volunteering can be a life-changing experience that influences your college years and the rest of your life in ways you could not have imagined. 

So why should everyone volunteer while they are in college? Let’s take a look. 

1. It introduces you to new skills and passions 

Volunteering tends to move you outside of your comfort zone. 

• You may find yourself planning events, presenting to groups, or contributing to a community project 

• These experiences can bring out skills you never knew you had 

• Experimenting in new roles can help you discover what really gets you excited 

Through this, volunteering is a process of discovery, not only service. 

2. It builds connections beyond the classroom 

College can sometimes feel like a bubble, where the same faces and ideas repeat day after day. Volunteering opens the door to meeting people from different backgrounds and walks of life. 

• You work alongside passionate individuals who share your desire to make a difference 

• You build friendships based on shared experiences rather than just academics 

• These connections can become valuable networks in your personal and professional life 

Volunteering opens your eyes to what lies outside the campus boundaries. 

3. It improves your mental health 

Helping others has an unexpected way of helping yourself as well. 

• Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and belonging 

• It is known to decrease stress and improve happiness 

• Doing something good for the community raises your spirits and improves resilience 

In the hectic and stressful life of a student, volunteering provides a worthwhile respite. 

4. It makes your resume and job prospects stronger 

Employers place a premium on experience that transcends grades. Volunteering exhibits qualities such as leadership, teamwork, empathy and dedication. 

• It provides you with real-life experiences to use in job interviews 

• It proves that you can initiate and work with different teams 

• It frequently offers mentorship and career counselling opportunities 

Therefore, volunteering isn’t only a matter of giving but also one of professional development. 

5. It leaves a positive mark in your community 

It is easy at times to feel helpless or disconnected from larger social causes. Volunteering allows you to give directly. 

• Whether it is tutoring kids, picking up public places, or running drives, your work counts 

• You notice the positive impact that you can make, however little 

• This exposure helps foster empathy and a lifetime commitment to social responsibility 

So, why should all people attempt volunteering in college? 

Because it is an opportunity to develop in ways that textbooks can’t. It is a chance to make new friends, gain confidence and leave a mark. It is a deviation from the ordinary that nourishes your mind and spirit. 

Volunteering is not about serving others. It is about finding yourself, creating community and crafting a future you are passionate about. 

If you’ve never volunteered, your college years are the ideal time to begin. Take a step out. Give it a try once. You may be amazed at how your life can change.