Every student understands the need to strike a balance between academics and other activities such as extra-curricular activities, sports, and social life. And while it might seem that adding volunteering to this already challenging scenario is overdoing it, many students are in love with this constructive form of work. Volunteering is not only an impressive activity to include when applying to colleges; it also helps one develop, acquire new abilities and foster relationships with the environment. But how does one go about volunteering without affecting his or her studies? The following are some suggestions for managing the two aspects effectively.
1. Set Clear Priorities
1- Volunteering is a big commitment, so take time to outline your priorities before you take up any volunteering engagement. Education is and should always be the primary goal, as it is the surefire pillar that will build your tomorrow, however every healthy citizen ought to do their share of contribution to the society and this is where different volunteering opportunities come in. So consider the reason for choosing to volunteer in the first place – Is it for experience? To help a cause that one believes in? or is it simply the case of having to ‘give back’ to the community? There is always a reason and that comes in handy when looking for a balance of all the verticals that you want to volunteer.
2. Plan and Schedule Your Time Wisely
One of the major pillars in achieving school and volunteerism is proper time management. A planner or electronic calendar for important dates such as deadlines, exams, and service hours is advisable. Allocate specific and individual time for service on a weekly basis that does not compromise school activities. If possible, try to choose specific days and times to render service because this pattern will facilitate the management of the both much more easily. Be also keen to include study hours and periods of rest in the schedule because stressing yourself will result in burnout.
3. Choose the Right Volunteer Opportunity
The extent of time commitment differs among volunteering opportunities. Seek for options where there is autonomy or where the working hours are appropriate for you. Many associations have working opportunities during the week, breaks or weekends, which suits most students who are otherwise occupied on weekdays. Also, you should try and pick duties that interest you or those that are in line with your professional objectives. To illustrate, if you like the medical field, volunteering in a hospital will be more relevant than other non-medical positions. It will go a long way in enhancing your loyalty to the cause since it will be something you love doing or to.
4. Practice Saying "No" When Necessary
As students, we are mostly confronted with the challenge of having to accept every opportunity, but this is not beneficial in any way when one is overcommitted. Recognize your thresholds and know how much volunteer work you can afford while still catering for attendance in classes. If there are major deadlines like exams and other projects, do not feel guilty about stepping back from any volunteering commitments. It is advisable to communicate to your volunteer coordinator in a professional way in case you are unable to meet for a while due to working on other issues. Most of the institutions will be understanding and appreciative of your concern.
5. Integrate Volunteering into Your School Life
It would be beneficial if you could find ways to combine your school responsibilities with volunteering. For example, if you are taking social studies, you might want to help out in the communities by engaging in activities that will extend what you study in class. You might even consider asking any teachers or school advisers to help establish a student-led volunteer program. Such a combination of study and community service promotes effective learning as well as good feelings towards the two activities.
6. Don’t Forget to Rest and Recharge
Juggling classes and community service isn’t easy and will require quite some effort, focus, and determination so don’t forget to focus on yourself. Ensure you incorporate sleep, exercises, relaxation techniques in your daily schedule. When extra work is unavoidable and you are really busy, it is advisable to rest rather than tempt yourself to finish school work overnight. It is possible to step away and come back to your responsibilities without feeling daunted and enhanced capability is certain in school work efforts and time for volunteer activities.
7. Reflect and Adjust Regularly
During the academic school year, your priorities for classes, work, or any other activities in your schedule and energy may change at times; hence it is advisable to review your position periodically. Ensure you spare some few minutes at the end of every month and evaluate how you are doing and whether there should be any changes. Are you feeling trapped? Would adjusting your volunteer activities hours help or are there other activities that you can do instead according to your available hours? Evaluation together with making any necessary changes is vital when trying to keep up with commitments that are intended to last for a long period of time.
Final Thoughts
Managing school and volunteer work isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but it can certainly be done when one possesses the right approach as well as the relevant techniques. If you prioritize, plan, take suitable tasks, as well as look after yourself, you will handle both with ease. Keep in mind that the primary aim of being engaged in volunteer work is to make yourself and others happy. As long as you find the necessary activities in your schedule to make a difference in society, you will also do well in your academics.
