Going to university isn’t just about studying, there are also many opportunities available to try new things, meet new people and make the most of your time at RGU. Why not get involved and spend some time volunteering and giving back to the community during your time here?
Grace and Jo from the RGU:Union share everything you need to know about volunteering.
Volunteering opportunities
There are so many ways to get involved in volunteering at RGU, from taking part in some of our many societies or sports clubs by becoming a committee member or choosing to be a student representative.
You can also work internally with us here at the Union by contributing to student media Radar Media, being part of the Go Green team or as an elected Vice President. Other roles include volunteering with our listening service RGU Nightline or becoming an Equality Champion.
Alternatively you can volunteer with any of our registered organisations and charities. We have a variety of registered charities offering activity-based placements for students including volunteering that covers communications/marketing/publicity, arts/culture, medical/care and sports/outdoors just to name a few!
If you would rather not have a regular commitment, but would like to try volunteering out, there are also one-off events that organisations and charities are advertising which can range from activities such as bag packing, street collecting, events management or beach cleaning.
Why is volunteering important?
The benefits of volunteering can be enormous; not only do you receive training and practical experience in challenging and rewarding situations, but we can help you gain recognition for this good work. The certificates that you receive will look fantastic to prospective employers. Some of the other benefits include:
Helping others – It’s human nature to feel good after helping someone out! Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, the community and worthwhile causes.
Building a sense of community – Volunteering can help you connect with your community and people you perhaps wouldn’t have engaged with before. You also have the opportunity to make new friends, and strengthen existing relationships.
Boosting your confidence/learning new skills – Volunteering can help you learn new skills, develop current ones, gain valuable experiences, and boost your confidence.
Recognising your efforts
If you register as a volunteer with us and are a full-time undergraduate student you can log your hours and we’ll upload them to your university record (called your HEAR report) and then your extra-curricular activities will appear on your report which is issued to full-time undergraduates via Gradintel, which will be great for your employability.
If you are aged 25 or under, you also have the opportunity to take advantage of the Saltire Awards. This Scottish Government-backed scheme encourages young people to volunteer, and lets you log hours and work towards gaining certificates and recognition for the good work you do.
If you’d like to get involved or learn more about volunteering at the Union, you can get in touch via volunteering@rguunion.co.uk
Related blogs
Volunteering at RGU – From “just helping a friend” to making a difference
Hockey Club and Architecture Society: How I get involved at RGU
RGU student transforming the community with volunteering
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