Wondering what to do after you graduate? Volunteering can help.
We sat down with Yasemin, a recent Psychology graduate from Oxford University and the current Coordinator at the charity Jacari, to talk about how extracurriculars can turn into careers.
What made you start volunteering?
I knew I wanted to volunteer before I got to university, but after arriving in Oxford and seeing the prevalence of homelessness I was really motivated to start helping as soon as possible. During Michaelmas term I began doing outreach with Turl Street Homeless Action, handing out food and hot drinks and having conversations with people sleeping rough. I was really invested in the work the group was doing, and ended up becoming secretary, where my role was to encourage other students to volunteer.
When it came to second year, both my experience with TSHA, and the fact that I was already answering questions about volunteering from other students, gave me the confidence to apply to be Charities Rep at Brasenose. I really enjoyed the variety of the role — organising events, managing a budget, liaising with different groups, and advising students about how they could do something worthwhile in the city. It opened a lot of doors for me and made me realise that working in the charity sector could be a viable career.
How did you get your first job after graduation?
I actually saw my current job advertised when I was in second year, and thought it would be a really good step into the sector, as well as a fantastic cause to work for (Jacari is a charity providing free home tutoring to children in Oxford who speak English as an additional language). I feel like I’ve always been ethically minded, but got to learn more about careers in the sector through the Oxford Hub newsletter and from the contacts I made during my time as Charities Rep. Having a range of volunteering experience definitely helped when it came to actually applying!
What does your job involve day to day?
In my role as Jacari Coordinator I do most of the day to day admin, finances, fundraising and volunteer management, with the help of our two student committees at Oxford Brookes and Oxford University. I really enjoy the social aspect of my job, collaborating with student committees and meeting teachers from local schools. That said, being the only member of staff in Oxford I also have lots of freedom to set the direction of the charity, be innovative, and make improvements. My days can be quite varied — working on one big project or ticking little things off the to-do list. Either way, it’s good fun to be based above Turl Street Kitchen — all the other charities based here are really friendly and are ultimately working towards a shared goal!
What are the key skills/qualifications you need for your role?
As a student I really enjoyed learning about the local scene in Oxford — what the most important issues are and how much good is already being done. Another thing that’s come in useful is experience managing a budget — even overseeing a budget of £100 a term as Charities Rep helped me learn about keeping good records and how to juggle priorities. Finally, I think that an understanding of how to engage people in a cause is really important for my role. As Charities Rep I got to learn about running successful events and social media campaigns, but I also came to appreciate that it’s ok when things don’t work out as planned!
Where do you see yourself in the future?
No idea! I’m looking forward to gaining experience with different areas of the sector — developing key skills like how to write good fundraising bids, and networking to meet people from other charities. I’m looking forward to learning more about all the amazing causes out there before I decide where to go next!
What advice would you give to current students thinking about their next steps after university?
Stay open minded and gain a variety of experience — try not to pigeon hole yourself with regard to what career you think you want! Volunteering looks especially good on a CV because it shows employers that you’re motivated by more than just a salary. Apply to graduate schemes and internships, and be prepared to work your way up, especially in the not-for-profit sector. Your first role might not be perfect but there will still be lots you can learn!
Find out more about opportunities to make a difference in Oxford by browsing our website or coming along to our Volunteering Social this weekend. If you’re a final year student you can also learn more about social impact careers through our Worthwhile Graduate Scheme.
