Volunteering to make a difference
Cengiz and Nathan both studied Chemistry at Loughborough University (MChem and BSc degrees respectively), graduating in summer 2022. Whilst at Loughborough they have been heavily involved with the volunteering section of the Students’ Union, known as Action.
Both Cengiz and Nathan wanted extra opportunities outside of their studies, with a renowned reputation for student experience from their university choices. In-fact, Cengiz was originally studying chemistry at another university, but wanted more to get involved with in order to push himself and meet new people. Luckily, he came across Loughborough University, with our Students’ Union offering plenty of opportunities, and moved here instead!
Being able to customise their chemistry degrees with lots of different module choices impressed both students, sparking their interest by studying the fields of chemistry they most desired.
The best thing about studying chemistry at Loughborough for both Cengiz and Nathan has been the staff in the department. For Cengiz, the lecturers, and particularly his final year supervisor, were really engaged with the course, with an infectious enthusiasm that resulted in him loving the course just as much. Nathan found the staff really kind and friendly, often going the extra mile to help students. He told us how academic staff were very passionate about their research, which was clear in their lectures, and loved being able to catch up with them outside of academia over a coffee.
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Getting involved with Action
'Fruit Routes' holds a special place in my heart because it was my first ever project! I started in my first year and joined because I figured it was a great way to get settled and throw myself in the deep end in terms of my confidence. I think what’s great about Action is that you don’t need any particular skills or traits like some sports may need. Honestly, most of the time, just turning up and picking up a shovel means you’ve made someone’s day in the community!
My love for volunteering started when a friend in first year dragged me onto a dog walking project. After that, I couldn’t stop getting involved! Over my time at Loughborough, I’ve volunteered on hundreds of projects, ranging from hosting a tea dance for elderly residents in the local community, to accompanying nursery kids to fun fairs in town.
My favourite project is called 'Kids Camp', where a team of volunteers take a group of young carers on a respite trip to the Peak District. Throughout the week we put on several activities for the kids, including trips to theme parks and outdoor adventure areas, tie dying t-shirts, pizza making and much more. It’s a tiring week but is so rewarding seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces.
Leading the way
I quickly got involved and became the Action Rep for my hall of residence, Robert Bakewell. From there, I spent three years on the Action Committee, starting as Overseas Officer, with the last two years as Vice Chair. Being the Vice Chair has enabled me to work for Action and ensure its continuity along with the Action Chair. I’ve been a strong student voice for the section and enabled many students to be heard, which I’m extremely proud of. (I’m only stepping down now because I’m graduating!)
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Throughout my time at Loughborough I have been a Project Leader for several Action projects. These includes ‘Kids Cooking’, a project that runs after school cooking clubs in a local primary school to promote healthy eating and teach basic culinary skills, as well as ‘Tea and Talk’, a project which runs weekly afternoon tea parties in a local retirement home to combat loneliness and isolation in older populations. I’ve also led a project called ‘Special Events’, which runs various events throughout the year such as film screenings, themed kids parties (Halloween, Christmas, Easter etc), and a tea dance where the Students’ Union jazz band (Tuxedo Swing) plays an afternoon of music where attendees can get up and dance.
Skills for the future
I’m currently set to do a PhD in Birmingham and during my interview stages, Action came up a lot as being able to coordinate and work in a team. I stressed that I had a lot of leadership experience and interpersonal skills. I also had to deliver a presentation which I found was 10 times easier because there’s been many events in Action where I’ve had to speak to large cohorts of volunteers.
Volunteering has been a massive help in both my personal and professional development. Firstly, I have made lifelong friends through volunteering. It has also allowed me to develop various transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership and communication. Nowadays, various companies and recruiters look very highly when volunteering appears on someone’s CV. Now I am finishing my degree and looking to the future, I am actively looking for other volunteering opportunities. When I apply for jobs, part of my research is to see if the company offers any of these.
Why choose Loughborough?
Prospective students should choose Loughborough if they wish to be more than their qualification at the end of their degree. The opportunities as student volunteers and leaders you get at Loughborough are like no other. Students should want to come here and leave with more than just a degree.
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Loughborough truly has a unique experience for its students. From our halls of residence, to the various prospects the Students’ Union offers such as volunteering, charity fundraising and a wealth of sporting opportunities. There is a huge feeling of community on campus and everyone here is so friendly.
