The second UQ Careers and Graduate Employment Volunteer Expo will be held on Wednesday, September 8 from 10am to 2pm at the Holt and Heath Rooms, UQ Union complex, St Lucia.
On the back of last year’s successful event which hosted 45 charities, four medieval maidens, two costumed characters and one fairy floss machine, organisers hope that this year’s event will be even bigger and better.
"Last year 1800 students attended this free event and this year we have increased the venue size to meet demand,” Careers Advisor Rebecca McIntosh said.
The Expo provides UQ students with the opportunity to discuss Volunteering opportunities with organisations such as Surf Lifesaving Qld, Oxfam, Department of Environment and Resource Management, Pyjama Foundation, Australian Olympic Committee, BAMFest (a new music festival) and many more.
Students can discuss opportunities that fit in with their university timetable and hear directly from the organisation how their recruitment processes work.
“Employers really value volunteer placements,” Ms McIntosh said.
“Volunteering is a real opportunity for students to get a taste of a professional environment, and what it’s like working in a team.
"The benefits are not just warm, fuzzy feelings and a boost to your social conscience; students can develop their networks, gain referees and apply their theoretical skills practically.
"It can even lead to paid employment as it did with one student who volunteered with the Endeavour Foundation last year.”
Students don’t need to register for the event — just turn up on the day.
The Holt and Health Room is opposite the Pizza Cafe, right near the refectory.
If students wish to prepare they should research the organisations they want to speak to on the day and think about how they can apply their skills to suit the charity.
For more information visit: www.uq.edu.au/volunteer-expo
Media: Susannah Day 07 3346 8479.
