As international students studying abroad, we could encounter challenges in a number of areas. Some of these challenges are searching and applying for volunteering opportunities and networking. Like all university students, we believe that volunteering is an opportunity for us, especially international students, to gain real-world work experience build skills that matter in today's world, expand networks and enjoy a range of other benefits. In the following videos, we summarised 5 interviewees’ volunteering opportunities - highlighting the experiences, application process and networking.
Sharing from Yasmin, Melissa, and Rachel
Places where they volunteered
Organisation in America
Food company
Local dietetics clinic
Research centre
The major skills they obtained
Problem-solving
Time management
Teamwork
Communication
Reasons for recommending volunteering
Give back to the community
Experience the local working culture
Put ourselves out there
Sharing from Hannah, Pamela and Rachel
Application Process
Speech preparation
Referral from networking
Online registration
Group interview
Own education institute
They overcame the challenges by
Improving self-confidence
Taking the first step
The important tips:
Have a list that consists of various volunteering opportunities and the things she learnt through them
Be well-prepared before the interview
Have a good attitude
Stay positive
Sharing from Hannah, Melissa and Pamela
Networking strategies
Push the boundaries
Get out of the comfort zone
Take it slowly
Build confidence