Volunteer profile: Cheryl Wong

1. What areas of the University do you volunteer in?

I first heard about volunteering opportunities at the university while attending the Open Day back in 2017. I couldn’t wait to get started so I started researching opportunities online and applied. Then in April 2018 I was given my first volunteer role helping at the Adelaide Botanic High School Entrance Exams. From there I have volunteered at many events on and off campus and in July 2018 I was provided the opportunity to be an Adelaide Graduate Award Student Ambassador.

I have also helped out at the Children’s University Graduations, Orientation Week and have been an Arts Peer Mentor since May 2019.

2. Do you volunteer outside of the University?

Yes, I have been a volunteer with the Knightsbridge Baptist Church since 2014. I have had several volunteer roles from camera operator, barista to a peer mentor as part of the Kids Hope Australia program.

In May this year I joined the Channel 44 team as a Social Media Manger/Receptionist volunteer. This role has provided me the opportunities to implement my learnings through my degree as well as learn new ones.

3. What has your experience been like volunteering with the University of Adelaide?

I have gained a greater insight into the University community and the staff have been great in helping me develop my skills through networking and public speaking. I have gained confidence which has motivated me to break out of my comfort zone; and most of all I have made new friends from other degrees that I might not have ever met if it wasn’t for our common interest of volunteering.

4. What are some highlights or stand out moments from your time volunteering?

As I rewind back into the past decade, simple tasks such as public speaking, picking up a phone call and starting a conversation OR anything that shines a spotlight on me were my biggest fears.

In 2018, I undertook my first public speaking role as a bible reader which enabled me to develop a specific set of goal for 2019.

This year, my aim was to challenge myself by undertaking communicative roles like public speaking.  

Two of my biggest highlights have been a panel member for the Adelaide Graduate Award where I talked about my volunteering experience to new participants and being the MC for the Adelaide Graduate Award Networking Event. These have encouraged me to gain confidence in pursuing my childhood dream.

5. What would you say to others who are thinking of volunteering with the University?

Start from a role where you feel most comfortable then gradually select roles that challenge you.

Try it out before you miss out, you might develop a new interest or create a way to navigate through your career pathway.

Being or framing yourself as an introvert cannot hold you back from trying new things like public speaking because if you are passionate and enthusiastic about breaking out of your comfort zone,  you can do it with the bonus of making life-long friends that will support you through a particular role.

Set a goal that enables you to overcome a fear for every volunteering role that you will undertake so that you can improve your skills more effectively.