Student apathy or student involvement?

Sarah Watts gives some words of encouragement for student volunteers.

''In a world where we are increasingly told we are becoming apathetic, I think it is important to stand out, and make a difference not only to your own life, but to others too.'' ''All my volunteer hours contributed to my millennium volunteer award - an award scheme to recognise the volunteering achievements of young people aged 16- 25.''

As a recent geography graduate I can honestly say that university provided three of the best years of my life so far. This was not just because I could watch re-runs of The Simpsons all day, but also because of the work I got involved in through volunteering.

I was always determined to get involved at university. I joined the news team for my university newspaper and became a student rep. I loved it - I met people I wouldn’t have done under other circumstances, I shared ideas and I thought about things differently. I realised that, although your degree is important, there are other things that you should consider. It is your extra-curricular experiences that make you stand out from the crowd, especially as you search for a job outside of the university bubble.

During the long summer holidays I decided I’d like to continue volunteering, and instead of looking far afield I decided to explore closer to home. Through this I got involved in National Trust working holidays in the UK. These are a great opportunity for students as you only have to pay a small amount for the week, with food and accommodation included in the cost.

I soon discovered that the holidays attract a huge variety of people from all walks of life. Over the week you share duties including cooking and conservation tasks such as dry-stone walling, heather planting and vegetation clearance. I felt I really bonded with people and made a difference to the local environment - so much so that I have recently applied to be a leader on future holidays.

All my volunteer hours contributed to my millennium volunteer award - an award scheme to recognise the volunteering achievements of young people aged 16- 25. They also offer guidance and placement ideas to young people who want volunteering experience.

In a world where we are increasingly told we are becoming apathetic, I think it is important to stand out, and make a difference not only to your own life, but to others too. Volunteering really does broaden your horizons.

If you volunteer for a couple of hours a month or if you spend some of your summer volunteering at home or abroad, they will be hours well spent. There are so many people who will appreciate your time, and it will open your heart to new ideas and experiences. As a starting point and for inspiration, why not look at Oxfam’s volunteering opportunities or just ask at your student union.

Happy volunteering everyone!