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Hi there, I’m a mature student studying English and History at the University of Dundee. I hope to work with young people in some capacity when I graduate. Having volunteered with LIFT OFF for a while now I can honestly say that it has been a rewarding experience.
I’ve volunteered throughout my time at university but wanted to get some experience working with young people in a classroom environment. LIFT OFF offered this experience and so much more. The project was initially recommended to me by the volunteer centre at the university, and after an initial training session I joined the team. The thing that struck me about the people who work for LIFT OFF is their genuine enthusiasm to help young people progress from school to post-school education. This is something I wish I had access to when I was at school!
The first time I volunteered was a bit daunting but the LIFT OFF staff supported and encouraged me all the time, and told me just to be myself. This was something I embraced and it seems to be a good way to relate to young people. Every time you take part in a session is different and you learn things about interacting with young people all the time. The pupils clearly benefit from the project and enjoy being able to quiz a real live student about life at University or College. LIFT OFF also offers training sessions for student volunteers throughout the academic year, led by professionals involved in working with young people. Taking part in these is another good way to expand your experience and your CV!
Any students out there thinking about working with young people in the future will definately benefit from volunteering with LIFT OFF. Being part of the LIFT OFF team has given me relevant experience that I can use in my chosen career, whilst also supporting a worthwhile project working with young people in the local community. I can recommend it to anyone.