Beyond grades: how volunteering helps young people shine

As students across Northern Ireland await exam results and plan their next steps, a growing number of young professionals and students are feeling the impact of volunteering on their career and educational journeys. Giving time to the community is proving to be a powerful differentiator in today’s competitive landscape.

Emily Burke (20) from Newtownabbey started volunteering in secondary school at open days and ‘eco club’ events. She went on to become a leader with St John’s Ambulance and the Girl Guides and is now involved in several youth forums and boards including RSPB’s Youth Network and the Ulster Wildlife Youth Forum. She is an #iWill ambassador with Volunteer Now, an initiative that aims to increase youth participation in social action, and Chair of the Women’s Student’s Association within Queen’s University Belfast Student Council.

When it came to applying for jobs and, later, for university, Emily found her volunteering gave her real-life experience she couldn’t have gained elsewhere: “When you’re young and first start applying for jobs, you may not have any paid experience, so volunteering is an incredible way of demonstrating skills, drive and passion.  Then, when I was applying for my course at university, my personal statement was so important in securing a place. I was able to write about the commitment I’d displayed in my volunteering and the lessons and skills I’d learned with real examples. Rather than just listing qualities and expertise, I could prove them. Because I was applying for a Liberal Arts course, my involvement on youth forums specifically showed my passion for politics and social issues. It really did help with my application.  I would advise anyone thinking about their next steps to make sure they volunteer! If you choose to volunteer in an area that you’re passionate about, you’ll meet people with similar interests too. Don’t feel you have to rely on results alone – volunteering will give you another edge that not everyone will have and will genuinely help your onwards learning and career.”

Belfast’s Amy Donald, 23, is a dedicated volunteer befriender, who credits her volunteering experience with directly contributing to her professional success.  “I’ve been a volunteer befriender for almost two years, thanks to Volunteer Now, who connected me with an elderly person at risk of isolation,” says Amy. “The experience has been invaluable. It not only made my CV stand out but also gave me essential softer skills I use daily in my job.”

Amy works in Special Assistance at Belfast City Airport, where she helps passengers with accessibility requirements. Her employer specifically noted her volunteer work during the interview process.

“When I was offered my position, my employer told me they were impressed by my volunteering efforts,” Amy explains. “They saw a clear match between the skills I developed as a befriender and the demands of the Special Assistance role.”

Volunteering has significantly boosted Amy’s confidence and interpersonal skills. “Being a befriender has given me so much confidence to chat with people of all ages,” she shares. “Before volunteering, I wasn’t sure what I’d talk about with an older person, but now I love making those connections and sharing stories. It has also given me a greater sense of empathy. You realise that a little bit of your time can go a very long way in making someone’s day better, especially when they might be facing unseen challenges.”

This trend reflects the increasing recognition by employers and educational institutions of the diverse and practical skills gained through volunteering, from communication and problem-solving to empathy and teamwork.  Jane Gribbin, Volunteer Now, adds: “Volunteering transforms lives, not just for those receiving support, but for the volunteers themselves. We consistently hear from employers and our own network how invaluable this experience is – it sets candidates apart for college, university, placements and job opportunities. “

As Emily and Amy brilliantly show, volunteering builds skills that grades alone can’t teach: empathy, confidence, and real-world resilience.  To any young person planning their future, don’t just think about qualifications; explore volunteering. It’s an investment in yourself, and you never know where it might lead.”

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