I volunteer with the RAF Reserves helping with the testing sites for Covid-19.  I grew up on RAF bases when I was younger, such as RAF Wittering and Bruggen (in Germany). My father served for a long time, so it it was something I wanted to get involved with.  The volunteering role is long days - loading up testing equipment around 8am before heading to the testing site to set up before spending the day here.  Our role is to test the general public who may be experiencing symptoms of Covid-19, for that reason we’re completed kitted in full PPE. We’ll finish at around 5pm and head back to base. I’ve been doing this for around 2 months full time, based at RAF Woodvale.  I've learnt a lot through this role - to be as open as possible, having an open mind about new opportunities can only ever be a good thing. I’ve been extremely fortunate that I’ve made some great friends from volunteering too.  There's a great atmosphere - it’s great working and living alongside people with the same mindset. I also enjoy the disciplined lifestyle, as it’s a skill I can take into any workplace or environment. I'd say to those thinking about volunteering - you never lose anything by volunteering.  Even if it turns out you don’t enjoy it, you’ll have gained new skills and most likely something to add to your CV. Once I finish University I hope to go into Aerospace Mission systems.  I took part in a year long Aerospace Engineering QinetiQ (2018-2019). I was supported by the Student Futures Team throughout it I think I’ve grown massively as a person during my time volunteering. I’ve managed to develop a good set of interpersonal skills too. Working with people of different ages, backgrounds and rank means you need to adjust accordingly, the same goes for any workplace.  I'd really recommend volunteering - you can only grow as a person, whilst adding invaluable experience to your CV.