Last year I asked an international student involved in Royal Holloway Community Action to write a piece for this blog. It was never published so I am now putting this right by publishing it here.
Habitat for Humanity
“Seeing those genuine smiles on their faces brought a warm feeling through every part of my body. How is it that the people who have absolutely nothing can be the happiest people on earth? In the middle of the endless mountains in Outer Mongolia I volunteered as part of Habitat for Humanity to build houses. Seeing them laugh at how I hammered slanted nails into the floorboards made me realize that what they needed more than anything was people who cared and tried to help.
While I spent 6 years living in China, I volunteered regularly at a local orphanage and retirement home, experiencing similar moments. Having a baby grab and hold onto your index finger showed, even from babies, how simply closeness can have such grave effects.
After then moving to England for University I continued volunteering; now working with the Mental Health Befriending Scheme, befriending their service users and providing support. Even though the word ‘volunteer’ entails no money, the incentive of making a difference is worth more than money, and even though “make a difference” sounds cliché, it is possible. In comparison to the nomads of Mongolia, or the homeless orphans who have nothing, I discovered how fortunate I really am, and that makes volunteering simply mind fulfilling.
Most importantly, volunteering abroad can change who you are as you become more accepting of other cultures; you live their lifestyle, you learn about their lifestyle, and you get to go abroad: a win-win situation for all!”
Employers prefer students who have taken part in work experience, extra-curricular activities and volunteering. Royal Holloway Community Action has a wide range of opportunities – why not see what you can do?
You too can write for this blog. Email me here with your ideas.
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