"I am driven by giving back to others!"

This Volunteering Week, Jingyi Ye, Volunteering Officer in 2024, shares about how volunteering helped her settle into the UK, develop transferable skills, and make a meaningful impact along the way.

Interested in becoming the next volunteering officer?

Finding community

I became interested in volunteering during my first year. Coming to UCL was also my first time travelling to a foreign country, and I had to settle all by myself. I was trying to find something that I could do to become more familiar with the local community and society that I was going to be a part of for the next three years. When I became volunteering officer, I felt like I could use my knowledge to help other people and make the community a better place.  

Making international students feel at home

UCL has a lot of international students, and I thought that there may be a lot of other students who face the same problems and challenges I did when they came to the city for the first time. 

I wanted to show other students that there is a way you can become more familiar with your community and also give something back to others – that's why I decided to put myself forward in the Leadership Race as Volunteering Officer.

The impact of being volunteering officer

It's isn't just the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment from helping others and contributing to society that I cherish. As Volunteering officer, I acquired a wealth of transferable skills and forged friendships that will last a lifetime. The journey was immensely rewarding, and allowed me to build on my strengths and learn from my experiences.

Creating a welcoming environment

Although starting out in volunteering can be daunting, the support from staff members and fellow volunteers ensures that no one feels isolated. This sense of belonging and unity within the community is what I appreciated most. It truly felt like a family gathering, where everyone is connected and supportive. 

Running socials

2024 was our first attempt at creating a new way for volunteers to gather, share experiences, and forge friendships.  Our aim was to bring volunteers closer together, foster a sense of belonging, and show everyone that they are not alone on their journey. We are always here to listen and support each other. 

This experience taught me the importance of embracing new ideas and the willingness to experiment. The result was immensely rewarding and reinforced the value of innovation and the courage needed to break new ground and introduce fresh concepts. 

What's next?

• If you're interested in becoming a volunteering officer, nominations are open in the Leadership Race. Put yourself forward.