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Are you looking for volunteer opportunities that are flexible and on campus? Consider volunteering with SAMRU! We are accepting volunteer applications for the 2023-24 school year, and there are a variety of roles to be filled – you’re sure to find something that will interest you! Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of volunteering with SAMRU.

Volunteer around your class schedule

Do you feel like you only have time to volunteer a few hours a week or on an occasional basis? Volunteering with SAMRU is flexible, so you can prioritize your studies! If you’re looking to volunteer on a regular basis, consider volunteering for the weekly programming at the Peer Support Centre or Cultural Inclusion Centre. There are also seasonal programs such as Stress Less or our Free Tax Clinic that run for a shorter amount of time, so if you’re worried you might not have time to volunteer all year, this may be a good option for you!

Make new friends and connections

Volunteering is a great way to connect with new people who have different perspectives and experiences! Building a network is important as a student, whether it’s for future job references or career opportunities. You’ll also meet other students while volunteering, which is an opportunity to form new friendships!

Make a difference in your campus community

Volunteering can give you the opportunity to make a difference in the campus community and in the lives of your fellow students. Whether it’s helping out in the Peer Support Centre, stocking Care Cupboards, or being a SAMRU Ambassador to your Representation Executive Council (REC), there are plenty of ways you can help have a positive impact on the community around you!

Learn valuable skills and build your resume

Being a volunteer helps you learn new skills and further develop your existing knowledge. Expanding skills like teamwork, leadership, time management, and communication can be applied in multiple different areas, such as group projects, internships, or future careers. You may even learn something new about yourself and the skills you have, or discover what career path you might like to pursue.

Volunteer experience also looks great on a resume and can set you apart from other applicants. As a student or a new grad, you may not have a ton of experience for the internships or jobs you’re applying to, but the skills you develop through volunteer work could give you an edge!

Qualify for certain scholarships

Volunteer work may also help qualify you for certain scholarships or increase your chances of receiving one! Similar to applying for jobs, volunteering could set you apart from the other people who are applying, or may be a requirement in order to apply for the scholarship. 

Keep an eye out for SAMRU Awards next spring – applications will open in 2024!

Take a (productive) break from your studies

Volunteering is an excellent way to take a productive break from classes and studying. By taking a break from your classes and projects to volunteer, you can refresh your mind and return to your studies with renewed energy and motivation. Volunteering can also provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, which helps to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

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Ready to volunteer with SAMRU? Visit samru.ca/volunteer to see the detailed volunteer descriptions and fill out an application!