Outside US & Canada?
Volunteering
The perfect learning experience!
There are so many places to volunteer it may boggle your mind!
Volunteering in a non-profit setting is great. They're happy to have you, and if you make mistakes you're generally forgiven pretty quickly. For some positions, a bit of training is necessary. For others, all that's required is your interest and your time.
Ever thought about working as a teacher? (Visit our Teacher Licensure Degree section). Schools and community centers everywhere can use your help.
Ever wanted to learn to build a house? (Visit our Carpentry and Construction Programs section). Habitat for Humanity will help you learn if you'll help them build!
Interested in political science? (Visit our Political Science Degree section). The political parties will be glad for your help, and you'll learn a lot about the political process.
Love the forest? Dozens of environmental organizations have ways for you to help while learning! Want to become a better manager? Volunteer as a Scout Master.
When you decide to learn as a volunteer, make sure you:
- Are clear about your goals - what do you want to learn?
- Are completely clear about what is expected of you.
- Are willing to work hard and give as much, or more, than you might initially feel you receive.
- Are open-minded.
- Don't mind doing a variety of things-volunteers often get the "grunt" work.
- Keep track of the experiences you have and the things you learn. Write a journal about it, or share the things you learn with colleagues and friends.
- After volunteering a while, ask the organization for a reference letter - it might help you in secure a promotion or even a better job.
- Plan to feel great about making the world a better place.
Where to find volunteer opportunities
Ask! Chances are someone you know will instantly have ideas about where you can volunteer. Your local United Way chapter will gladly help you get involved. And many newspapers include "volunteer opportunities" in their classified sections.
