Volunteer profile: Kristen Lucas

1. How did you first get involved in volunteering with the University of Adelaide?

I first learnt about volunteering with the Uni at an Adelaide Graduate Award information session. I wanted to achieve the award so I signed up to be an Orientation Host and Arts Peer-Mentor to get my volunteer hours. At first, I wasn't too keen as I thought volunteering would be like doing a job without getting paid! However, after my first event I was completely surprised to find I actually really enjoyed these roles and I immediately felt like I was getting more out of my university experience. Not to mention, I got to know a group of welcoming and helpful student volunteers who encouraged me to join other volunteer programs, and I’m so glad I did!

2. What was your experience like volunteering with the University of Adelaide?

Volunteering is definitely one of the highlights of my university experience. I found at the beginning of my degree, it was hard to make friends with the people in my courses when I only saw them once or twice a week and I did not have the confidence to join clubs on my own.

As soon as I started volunteering I was introduced to a group of friendly, likeminded people who have since become great friends of mine. For me, the best part of volunteering is that every experience is different.

As an ELC intercultural volunteer, I get to meet a diverse group of international students and help them improve their English, while they teach me about their fascinating cultures. As an Adelaide Graduate Award Ambassador, I get to introduce other students to the volunteering opportunities available at the Uni and share my great experiences with them. The best part about volunteering at the Uni is that it is a social activity that allows you to build leadership, teamwork and communication skills while networking with fellow students and helping people in the community.

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

I feel like through volunteering with the Uni, the experience is what you make it, and the more you put in, the more you gain! For example, as I am involved in many volunteering programs within the Uni and am studying a media degree, I was presented with the opportunity to run the University Instagram story for National Student Volunteer Week. Not only was this a lot of fun, but it also gave me hands on experience working in media, something that I aspire to do after I graduate. Another highlight is all the international friends I have met through my various volunteering programs, I now have friends from all over the world!... I am especially grateful as they always take me to cool restaurants around Adelaide and introduce me to new (and sometimes very strange but delicious) food!

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

I would say, go online to the Uni's volunteer website and see what opportunities you can get involved in asap! It's never too late to start volunteering and it's a great way to meet new people, gain new skills, and give back to the community doing something that you really enjoy. There is a volunteer program at the University for everyone, whether your interested in teaching, student health and wellbeing, cultural exchange, event support, sports, leadership, the list goes on!