How To Start Volunteering as an International Student

The thrust of volunteer work is the desire to make a change. Wherever you can in the world, there’s always a project that seeks to solve a social problem.

For international students, volunteering is an incredible demonstration of skill, passion, and commitment. Moreover, it is also an opportunity to expand their network and gain life skills.

If you want to add volunteering to your study journey, there are some things you must know. Adequate preparation is necessary to ensure successful volunteer work.

Here’s how you can start volunteering as an international student:

Understanding Your Reasons for Volunteering

What is your purpose for volunteering? Your desire to volunteer can be various things. It may be the drive to make a difference or to strive for a meaningful experience.

Other international students also volunteer for networking purposes. Volunteering is also highly impactful on your resume. 

Maybe you’re in it for a noble cause, for future career reasons, or both. Whatever it is, it’s best to know it at the beginning before starting to look for projects.

Researching Possible Projects

You must research organizations that hold and run these community projects. You can find details on their websites or through their social media channels.

It’s also possible to volunteer on a virtual platform. Remember to chase after a project that suits your goals as a student.

Considering Financial and Academic Hurdles

Volunteer work is usually unpaid though some organizations give allowances. Some groups also offer free meals to volunteers.

With this in mind, you can’t expect to get large monetary benefits unlike in part-time work. So it may be an issue if you can commit your time without any returns.

Your class schedule may also affect your active participation in volunteering. You may only be allowed to volunteer after class or during weekends. Consider these things when looking for a project.

Connecting to Current Volunteers on the Project

Connecting to current volunteers can give you insights into how the project works. They can also give you advice and suggestions on how you can balance your time and energy.

Communicating with current volunteers is essential to get insights into duties you need to perform. You’ll also get a better understanding of the project’s mission. 

At this point, you can start asking questions about the project and volunteer roles. You may also negotiate with the time and schedule so it doesn’t clash with your studies.

Assessing Your Skills and Abilities You Want To Improve

Finding a project that matches your skills is important. For example, if you’re great with children, you can volunteer as a guardian for a youth organization.

Moreover, you can also find skills you want to improve on. If you lack confidence, you can volunteer as an English teacher to children. It’s necessary to look if there are rooms for you to grow. 

Volunteering allows you to take part in social change while developing your skills and giving you a memorable experience. Flip through our pieces here at MSM Unify to find more content about volunteering as a foreign student.