There are many reasons why psychology undergraduates may be interested in volunteering in the community. First, many psychology students are committed to learning about and then applying helping skills. Others pursue volunteer work as a way of gaining relevant experience for both jobs or preparation for graduate school.
How can you find a volunteer placement?
My favorite place to start is Volunteermatch.org. This is an amazingly large, national database of sites that are seeking volunteers. You can enter your zip code and areas of interest, and a range of sites will appear for you to contact.
My favorite place to start is Volunteermatch.org. This is an amazingly large, national database of sites that are seeking volunteers. You can enter your zip code and areas of interest, and a range of sites will appear for you to contact.
The University has volunteer options for undergraduates as well. The Center for Student Involvement is the place to go to for Chicago students in AUD 344. They sponsor a variety of community service options throughout the academic year.
At Schaumburg campus, check out the Center for Campus Life in Room 430. One great way to connect to the community in the suburbs is through the Enlightenment Project that the Center coordinates.
What about internships?
Some undergraduates want more field experience than volunteering. Internships provide career-related work experience while you attend school. An internship is an excellent way to develop yourself professionally, explore your career, establish helpful contacts and network for your future career path. A successful internship is a great foundation to move forward and may lead to permanent employment after graduation.
Some undergraduates want more field experience than volunteering. Internships provide career-related work experience while you attend school. An internship is an excellent way to develop yourself professionally, explore your career, establish helpful contacts and network for your future career path. A successful internship is a great foundation to move forward and may lead to permanent employment after graduation.
Internships are available in all fields and the staff in the Career Development Office can help you identify ideal opportunities, utilize online resources and support you through the internship process. Start with their online resources here.
This is so helpful! Thank you, Dr. Meyers.
ReplyDeleteWith pleasure, Ingrid! I appreciate that you promoted it in your email correspondence to others as well.
ReplyDelete