Learn how your volunteering can help you with your employability prospects
When you’re at university in the UK, life can feel like a constant juggle: lectures, assignments, societies, part-time jobs, nights out… the list goes on.
So why add volunteering to the mix? Honestly, because it can be one of the smartest moves you make for your future career.
You’ll Pick Up Skills Without Even Realising It
Volunteering isn’t just about “helping out.” You’ll be building real skills that employers love. Things like:
- Teamwork (because you’ll rarely be doing it alone)
- Communication (explaining things clearly, talking to people from different backgrounds)
- Organisation (juggling uni deadlines and volunteering commitments is basically project management training)
- Leadership (running events or mentoring others can show you’ve got initiative)
These are exactly the kinds of examples you’ll be asked about in interviews, and volunteering gives you plenty to talk about.
Real Experience = A Stronger CV
Not every course comes with placements or internships, but volunteering can fill that gap.
Whether it’s helping run a charity’s social media, tutoring school kids, or fundraising for a cause, it all counts as experience. And when you put it on your CV, it shows you’ve gone beyond the classroom.
You’ll Meet People Who Can Open Doors
Uni is great for making friends, but volunteering can connect you with people working in the areas you’re interested in.
Those contacts might recommend you for internships, jobs, or just give you advice you wouldn’t have found otherwise. Sometimes your volunteering role itself can even lead to paid work.
You’ll Stand Out From the Crowd
Thousands of students graduate every year with degrees. Employers are looking for something extra. Volunteering shows you care, that you can balance commitments, and that you’re proactive.
Basically, it tells employers you’re more than just your degree classification.
And to put a cherry on top- you can add your CCCU Volunteering award to your CV and LinkedIn profiles in addition to your volunteering role- why not milk it!
You Can "Test Drive" a Career
One of the best hidden perks of volunteering is that it lets you try out different roles without the pressure of a long-term job.
You might discover you love working with young people, or that event planning just isn’t your thing — and that’s just as valuable.
It’s a safe way to learn more about yourself, your strengths, and what kind of work environment suits you. That insight can make career decisions after graduation feel a lot less daunting.
Confidence and Growth (The Unexpected Bonus)
It’s not all about the CV. Volunteering can push you out of your comfort zone and give you a massive confidence boost.
Whether you’re talking to strangers at an event or leading a project, you’ll surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. And confidence in yourself goes a long way in job interviews.
Final thought
If you’re looking for a way to make your time at uni count for your future, volunteering is a solid choice. It helps you build skills, gain experience, meet people, and grow as a person.
Plus, you’ll be doing something good for the community at the same time.
So next time you see a volunteering event on campus or a call for student helpers, give it a go. Future-you (and your CV) will thank you.