Amanda
Can volunteer work help in the long run when it comes to a career?
I'm almost out of college and I've been trying to get a summer job with no success. I would like to do something with my time and I've read somewhere that volunteering is great, especially if its related to your degree. For me, I'm majoring in Art and Design and I've already set up applications to volunteer at an art museum and also other programs that might involve something like helping in workshops or teaching some small art classes to children or adults. Will this help with my job search if I plan on sticking with something related in the arts? I've considered possibly working in a museum or something similar to that. I live near Houston which has a pretty diverse art community already. I guess my real question is, does volunteer work look good on a resume? #volunteering #museums #arts-and-crafts
5 answers
Kathleen Thompson
Kathleen’s Answer
Volunteering is a wonderful way to build your resume and also show that you are "giving back" in the community where you live. Might I also suggest that you find one or more homeless shelters in your area that are for families, and check in with them about your idea for some art classes. These shelters can always use volunteers, and your unique skill would be something wonderful to share with others who do not have the opportunity to enjoy the arts on a regular basis, if ever. Good Luck!
June Covington
June’s Answer
Volunteering is great idea for several reasons:
-fills gaps in your work history
-helps you expand your network and meet potential role models or mentors
-broadens your base for letters of recommendation
-let's you try out a variety of work situations
-gives you opportunity to learn new skills
-it is good for your community, too!
I have returned to volunteering many times as a way to try-out a new path before makinh a career shift.
Good luck!!
Kathleen Thompson
Kathleen’s Answer
sudheer kota
sudheer’s Answer
This might help in different way to the career movement. You learn new and transferable skills as well as applying the current skills in different ways.
It’s an opportunity for career exploration in understanding more about the ways how the organization functions.
Robert T Baumer
Robert T’s Answer
Intern work can and volunteer work certainly can, yes.