Many students think that it is too early to think about colleges and jobs at this age. However, if you think about your future ahead of time, it may serve you well when you move on to college and eventually when you get a job. Whether you are in 6th grade, 7th grade or 8th grade, volunteer hours are a great way for you to get a jumpstart on your school career, job career and help you grow.

How volunteer hours help students with college.

If you want to get into a prestigious college like Harvard or Stanford, a certain amount of volunteer hours are required for entry or greatly benefit your chances of getting into your dream college. Colleges view volunteer hours as a sign of commitment, leadership and impact in your community beyond your academic achievements.  

“It goes on your transcript and whatever applications you may make to a college or a similar institution, it would be on there and the more you have it, it signifies how much good you’ve done to your community.” eighth grade strings major Levi Baker said.  

Volunteer hours in college can also reveal to you what profession you would want to pursue because if you enjoy doing a certain volunteer job, then you may want to pursue that career, which colleges will offer based on that experience you have.

 “A lot of volunteers, just like our PTO, are people that have a skill set, a knowledge that they are sharing, whether it’s with computers or technology.” said assistant principal Mrs.Connelly. 

How volunteer hours help students with job resumes.

Job resumes are important if you want a successful life and pay your taxes on time. Volunteer hours enhance your resume because not only do they can fill your resume gaps, they can also serve as a source of commitment to show the people reading your resume that you show the dedication and responsibility that may be required for the job that you are applying for.

 “I would imagine they’re going to look for those quality and prospective employees.” Mrs.Connelly said. Also, volunteer hours help your resume stand out more, making the company consider your experience and skills.

How volunteer hours help students personally grow.

There are many benefits of volunteer hours but not all of those hours have to be included in college or job applications. They can help students personally grow. Volunteer hours can help students learn about hard work and can show them discipline and commitment as well. 

“Volunteer hours encourage a state of hard work.” Levi said. 

Volunteer hours help students personally grow through developing life skills that students will use later on in their lives. 

“By volunteering, especially at a young age, you might learn a new trade or skill and you get to explore different options.” Mrs.Connelly said. 

This correlates to job resumes because these are skills that may be required in the profession that you want to pursue. This can make your job resumes have more quality and cleaner.

Volunteering is a great way for you to get ahead in your college life and job life and can teach you personal skills to help you grow. Right now, there are many ways you can earn volunteer hours at this level in your school career. There are nonprofit organizations that will gladly invite you to volunteer at many different places such as dog shelters, libraries and more. If you want to find ways to volunteer, go to https://discover.pbc.gov/pages/volunteer.aspx to see how you can get involved in your community.