Volunteering improves résumé, gives job training, speaker says

By Myisha Henderson/reporter

Including volunteer work on a résumé can transform it from lackluster to exceptional.

Darrell Whitsell of SE Campus career and employment services describes volunteering as a “win-win program.”

“It’s an experience,” he said. “It’s a chance to examine yourself.”

It’s no secret that most companies hire their ex-volunteers, Whitsell said.

Volunteering is the perfect way to get a foot in the door to a dream job and even with a dream company, he said.

Volunteering is a sign of commitment and can illustrate responsibility, dedication and organization to a prospective employer. Those are qualities a great leader and hard worker will possess. Volunteers prove that by not getting paid for their time and effort. There is no monetary gain in volunteer work, only personal satisfaction, Whitsell said.

On a résumé, volunteer work can be listed as work experience if applicable.

It’s also a great way to improve or learn interpersonal skills, Whitsell said.

Some people view volunteer work as performing tedious activities such as arranging clothes or doing paperwork.

“I know I should volunteer more often, but I don’t have the time to devote to folding clothes at the local shelter,” said UTA transfer student Amy Caldwell.

While those are possible, other areas can provide real-life work experience in a chosen field.

Nonprofit organizations create events from the ground up, and all the work is completed by volunteers.

Everything from public relations skills and graphic design abilities to hospitality management skills are needed.

“[Volunteer work] is a great way to try out a career and see if it’s right for you,” said Gina Maloy, SE career and employment services director.

Students can come into the office to begin their search for volunteer opportunities, she said.

Career and employment services currently partners with 157 nonprofit and volunteer agencies.

Students can view the organizations online in the near future, but for now, everything is listed in a binder.

Some TCC professors make volunteering a class requirement, which is called service learning.

Students who would like to learn more about service learning as an academic requirement can visit the career and employment services office in ESEE 2103A.