Meet Leslie, an international student who embraced volunteering in Australia, sharing their story in our ‘Share Your Story’ series.
Starting a New Life
“I arrived in Adelaide, Australia, in February 2022 as an international student. Starting a new life in a foreign country was challenging. I faced not only language barriers but also differences in culture, living habits, and ways of thinking. Seeking to ease my transition, I began volunteering at the University of Adelaide.”
Personal Growth and Recognition
“What started as a means to settle down quickly evolved into a deeply enriching experience. Volunteering not only helped me forge friendships and expand my social network but also played a pivotal role in my personal growth. I learned to navigate a new culture, adapt to different living habits, and broaden my ways of thinking. Due to my dedication to peer support, I was honored as the Volunteer of the Year at the University of Adelaide in 2022 and received the International Student Award for Peer Support from StudyAdelaide in the same year.”
Expanding Volunteer Efforts
“Encouraged by this wonderful experience, I ventured beyond the university to volunteer for organizations such as the Red Cross, Adelaide Fringe, TAFE SA, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. I am currently an active volunteer for the South Australian Museum, the City of Adelaide, Thorne Harbour Health, and others. Since 2022, I have contributed over 700 hours to more than 20 organizations and events.”
The Australian Spirit
“Volunteering has instilled in me a sense of the ‘Australian Spirit,’ characterized by mutual aid, mateship, resilience, and community orientation. It has also enhanced my professional skills, including customer service, communication, and cultural diversity awareness. These skills were instrumental in securing my dream job at Flinders University after graduation.”
Continuing to Volunteer
“Despite working full-time, I continue to volunteer on weekends. My motivation extends beyond community engagement and professional development; I aim to inspire people, especially international students, to explore and understand the country in which we study and live, actively integrating and contributing to the local social life, eventually calling it ‘home.'”
Encouragement to Future Volunteers
“To our international students, let me share why volunteering is not just the easiest but also the most valuable way to experience the country you’ll call home for the next two or more years. It’s more than just embracing diversity and cultural richness; it’s about understanding how to live and study successfully in this new environment.”
Experiencing Aussie Life
“Through volunteering, you’ll encounter countless ‘firsts’: your first taste of Aussie lifestyle, your first time celebrating Aussie festivals, and your first glimpse into the Aussie spirit of giving. These experiences will not only broaden your horizons but also enhance your professional skills. You’ll refine your communication abilities, hone your customer service skills, master the art of teamwork, and gain valuable experience in program management – all without any financial cost.”
Building Connections and Career Inspirations
“The individuals you’ll meet while volunteering may just become your career’s biggest inspirations. They’ll guide you towards your professional path, helping you understand the significance of experiences like ‘The rose’s in her hand, the flavor in mine.’ At the very least, volunteering will enrich your study abroad experience and enhance your resume.”
Encouragement to Volunteers
“For those who may be hesitant, volunteering offers a way to help others while satisfying your own curiosity and interests. It’s the perfect avenue to stay connected with your community, forge friendships with like-minded individuals, soak in the festive spirit, and bask in the appreciation of visitors. There are also opportunities for watching free shows that thank you the dedication of volunteers like you.”
Commitment to Volunteering
“Participating in volunteer activities entails honoring commitments. Organizers expect volunteers to approach their commitments with seriousness, as doing so not only shows respect for the event but also for their own values. Volunteering embodies commitment on physical, spiritual, intellectual, and emotional levels. It’s essential to thoroughly understand the nature of a volunteer opportunity and assess your suitability before committing to it. A meaningful and rewarding volunteering experience is a mutually beneficial journey for both the organizer and the volunteer.”
Photo Descriptions
- Photo 1 and 2: My volunteer experiences across different areas, including the University of Adelaide (Children’s University, Wellbeing, Academic Integrity, Community Volunteering Program), Red Cross, South Australian Museum, City of Adelaide, SAMESH, Australia Day 2023, Adelaide Fringe 2023 & 2024, FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, OzAsia Festival 2023, WOMADelaide 2023, Feast Festival 2023, etc.
- Photo 3: I was awarded the International Student Award for Peer Support from StudyAdelaide in 2022 and the Volunteer of the Year at the University of Adelaide in 2022. These awards recognize my contributions as a volunteer to international students and the community.
