We would like to introduce Ella Wilson, BA (Hons) Journalism student. Ella is a wonderful volunteer who we recently awarded the gold certificate to for a very impressive 148 hours of volunteering. We were delighted when Ella came forward to be a volunteering case study and have really enjoyed reading about Ella’s experiences and tops tips for future volunteers. Ella has certainly embraced the opportunities that have presented themselves and positively helped so many students at Teesside. Read all about Ella here…

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“I chose to volunteer with Teesside University as a Course Representative. I openly accepted this opportunity as I could make a real difference to my peers and allow them to have a say in the way in which their course is run. It felt as though I was the bridge between myself and my peers and those in charge. I also volunteer with TuXtra radio station as I am keen to become a journalist in my career and, when presented with the opportunity to have my own radio show and be a part of running the station, I couldn't turn down the chance to develop my skills for my future role.

As a TuXtra radio station volunteer, a typical day includes planning the radio show I run and host with my friend, which includes thinking about topics to discuss, games to play, and recent news stories. It's so much fun, it just feels like I am talking with mates but also gaining experience at the same time! After the show is recorded, I'll make some edits for the social media page, and we begin planning for the next week! As a course representative, I often speak with my peers when approached to discuss how they feel about the course and if there is any way I can help.

I have learnt that not all experience needs to be paid, and that gaining valuable workplace or interpersonal skills is not always something that comes from a job. Having the opportunity to gain experience, which is beneficial for my future career, is often difficult when there is a struggle to get a job without experience. Volunteering has provided me with the chance to improve my skillset whilst making a difference to others.

I enjoy getting to spend time with my peers as part of the radio station and as someone they can come to with concerns regarding the course. I feel as though the relationships you make throughout your time at university are incredibly important. I have built rapport with industry professionals, my peers, lecturers, and others to ensure I stand the best chance in the future. Being a part of the radio station is super fun, we are literally just talking, and I hope that it makes a difference to some people's lives.

My best tip would be to just enjoy yourself and be proud of whatever you do! You are making a difference and fully deserving of acknowledgement for doing so. Be proud to volunteer in whatever role you choose!

Through volunteering, my skillset has skyrocketed, and I don't think I would be able to confidently list the skills on my CV without the experiences. I have immensely improved my interpersonal skills in the radio station and gained confidence in public speaking and using the equipment.

I aim to become a renowned journalist, hopefully working on important news stories, sharing the lives of those who often go unnoticed in media. I want to make a difference to people's lives through media.

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