Whether it’s for a cause you believe in or pitching in when a for-profit company needs some help, volunteering gives you a chance to build your skills and experience, make a good impression on others, and potentially get leads for other opportunities.   Resist acting phony when you volunteer, especially if you’re motivated by making connections and adding to your resume.  Engage in the activity to the best of your ability, rather than badgering people to help you get better connected or write letters of recommendation! 

How can I find organizations or employers I’d like to volunteer with?

Great question!   You do this much the same way as you would identify employers of interest for your full-time job search.  It’s all about research and using resources.

• Start with basic research, using resources like WetFeet Industry Guides and CareerSearch, both found in MySpartanCareer.  CareerSearch gives you fast, accurate, up-to-date info on potential employers in a multitude of industries, including non-profit sector agencies, within geographic regions you specify.  Search as broadly or as narrowly as you want based on your own personal interests and geographic flexibility.

• Advanced resources, such as field-specific journals and websites (e.g. Ad Age if you’re interested in advertising; agcareers.com if you’re interested in agriculture, food, natural resources and biotechnology) help you discover the major employers that hire in your area of interest.

• To develop personal contacts, conduct informational interviews with people working in your field of interest!

• Contact organizations of interest directly to inquire about possible volunteer opportunities.

Career Services also partners with the Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement here at MSU.  This office works with over 300 community agencies, as well as faculty and staff on campus, to coordinate meaningful service-learning opportunities for students.  This gives you the opportunity to get out of the classroom and into the community where you can make a real difference and learn at the same time!  Visit the Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement to get more info available positions and programs offered.  Opportunities exist at social and human service agencies, neighborhood organizations, pre-K through grade 12 educational institutions, hospitals, medical/health, senior, recreation and youth mentoring programs, environmental initiatives, and government offices.  Don’t wait, get involved now!  It’s never too early.  There are opportunities for students from all academic programs!