Want to give back and grow your skills at the same time? Service programs and volunteer opportunities can be a meaningful way to spend your first year after graduation, whether locally or across the globe.
Volunteering after college can be a meaningful way to contribute to a cause you care about while building real-world skills and expanding your network. Whether you choose a local nonprofit, a national service program, or an international opportunity, service can help you explore career paths, strengthen your résumé, and make an impact. Use our resources to discover programs, understand the commitment involved, and prepare for a rewarding post-graduation experience.
Many full-time volunteer organizations offer invaluable experiences, whether it is abroad or domestic. These are experiences that you won’t get if you start a career or go to grad school right after graduation. Also, you will most likely build long-lasting and invaluable relationships with the people you work with and serve.
Reflection Questions:
What is my motivation for seeking a volunteer opportunity?
How will volunteering affect my career plans or goals?
What’s the application process and timeline for a full-time service position?
Does volunteering fit with your lifestyle goals post-graduation?
What are the financial resources available (i.e., stipend, scholarship, loan deferment, an education grant, health insurance, etc.)?
Can the organization provide you with names of former volunteers for you to contact and talk about their experiences?
What are the safety concerns regarding the area in which you will be working, traveling through and living?
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