University and College life is an exciting yet demanding time for students. Between academic pressures, financial stress, and adjusting to newfound independence, student mental health and well-being are major concerns. One of the most effective yet often overlooked ways to support students is by encouraging them to volunteer. Beyond benefiting communities, volunteering enhances students' mental health, social opportunities, career prospects, and overall university experience. Here’s why university wellbeing departments should actively promote student volunteering.
1. Volunteering Boosts Student Mental Health
University wellbeing departments focus heavily on mental health support, and volunteering is a natural extension of this mission. Research consistently shows that volunteering reduces stress, combats feelings of loneliness, and improves overall mental well-being. A study by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations found that 77% of volunteers reported enhanced mental well-being as a direct result of their service.
By giving students an opportunity to engage with others, focus on a cause beyond themselves, and experience a sense of purpose, volunteering can act as a proactive mental health intervention. It fosters resilience, provides a break from academic pressures, and helps students build confidence- critical factors in reducing anxiety and depression among young people.
2. Encourages Personal Growth and Life Skills Development
University isn’t just about academics- it’s also a time for personal development. Volunteering provides students with invaluable opportunities to gain practical experience and soft skills that are essential for their future.
Through volunteering, students can enhance their communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. These experiences help them navigate professional environments and personal relationships with greater confidence. For students struggling with self-esteem or direction, volunteering can provide a sense of achievement and purpose.
3. Enhances Employability and Career Readiness
Universities are increasingly focused on graduate outcomes, and volunteering is a powerful tool for career development. According to a LinkedIn survey, 41% of hiring managers consider volunteer experience equally as valuable as paid work experience.
Volunteering allows students to gain relevant experience, expand their professional network, and develop workplace skills in real-world settings. Whether they volunteer in mental health support, environmental conservation, education, or event management, they can build a portfolio of experiences that make them stand out to employers. Universities that actively promote volunteering opportunities give students a competitive edge in the job market.
4. Strengthens the University Community and Student Belonging
A strong sense of belonging is key to student retention and success. Universities that foster community engagement help students feel more connected to their peers and the institution itself.
Volunteering encourages social interaction, helping students develop friendships and support networks outside their immediate academic circles. It also instills a culture of giving back, reinforcing positive values and a strong university community. When students feel like they are part of something bigger, they are more likely to stay engaged, motivated, and happy throughout their university journey.
5. Flexible Opportunities Fit Around Academic Commitments
One concern students often have about volunteering is time management. However, many organizations offer flexible opportunities that can fit around their studies. Online volunteering, for example, allows students to provide support remotely without needing to commit to fixed schedules.
Wellbeing departments can collaborate with local charities, student unions, and digital platforms to provide students with accessible and manageable volunteering opportunities. By integrating volunteering into university initiatives, such as peer support programs, mentorship schemes, or community outreach, students can contribute in ways that fit their availability and interests.
How University Wellbeing Departments Can Promote Volunteering
Include volunteering in wellbeing strategies – Recognize volunteering as a mental health and employability initiative and integrate it into student wellbeing campaigns.
Partner with organizations – Collaborate with charities, online peer support platforms, and community groups to provide structured volunteering opportunities.
Create a central volunteering hub – Develop an easily accessible portal or section on the university website where students can browse opportunities.
Encourage faculty involvement – Work with academic departments to highlight the benefits of volunteering within different disciplines and course-related experiences.
Offer incentives and recognition – Create awards or certificates to acknowledge student volunteers, adding value to their CVs and personal development portfolios.
Final Thoughts: The Transformative Power of Volunteering
Student well-being is a priority for every university, and volunteering is a powerful tool that benefits both students and their communities. By making volunteering an integral part of student life, universities can enhance mental health support, boost employability, and create a stronger, more engaged student body.
Wellbeing departments have a unique opportunity to champion volunteering as a practical, effective, and fulfilling way for students to develop personally and professionally. The more students who get involved, the greater the positive impact- on individuals, the university, and society as a whole.