Juggling university and volunteering
Its National Student Volunteer Week 2022! It took less than a second to think of who we were going to talk to, one of our very own student volunteers – Jack Fawcett.
Since cutting down his hospitality work hours to do something more rewarding, Jack has dedicated up to 15 hours a week in not one, not two, but three volunteering roles!
We spoke with Jack to find out how he juggles volunteering, studying, working, and socialising.
What volunteering roles are you doing right now?
Currently I have three volunteer roles.
At Volunteer West, I maintain relationships with local organisations looking for volunteers and help with administrative tasks.
At Red Cross, I support the trainers in the learning and development team. They have lots of volunteers who need training before they are deployed to help with a crisis.
My role at SES is more hands on. I am active member who helps with call outs for assistance. Every call is different. I’ve fixed leaky roofs, moved fallen trees, and am currently building up the SES Footscray branch.
How do you manage your schedule with study and volunteering?
Breaking up my projects into manageable chunks makes it easier. Going from studying into one of my volunteering roles is easier than studying or working for the entire day.
What do you enjoy most about your volunteering roles?
The connection with my community. Volunteering is positive and rewarding and sharing that with others makes me feel good.
Do your volunteering roles compliment your studies?
I am studying Post Disaster Management, so all my roles compliment my studies.
Volunteering in diverse roles including operations, administration and on the front line lets me see how important volunteers are in disaster management.
There is a huge amount of support from volunteers for natural disasters.
What was it like when you started volunteering?
Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming. Don’t be put off by websites or forms, there’s always a person behind it all who wants to help.
Remember you are going to them for the right reasons, and they want to make sure you are supported and feel empowered to do the role.
What is your top tip for any students thinking about volunteering?
Just go for it! Volunteering organisations are very understanding of people with different abilities and are very inclusive.
If you prefer a desk-based role or a hands-on role, it’s a great way to learn a new skill.
You get experience you might never get from study or work!
Do you have a volunteering story to share?