Arcadia England

Volunteering is something that I’m sure everyone would acknowledge is a worthwhile and rewarding thing to do. But, finding the time to do it is often one of the biggest barriers to more people getting involved.

So when students sign up to take part in our volunteering events during the limited time they are here, we feel that it’s always even more impressive.

This semester student's volunteering experiences have ranged from library homework clubs to dinner events at Shakespeare’s Globe. Some of our students who volunteered this semester have kindly shared their experiences with us below.

Kenzie Provencher & Cody Adams

Brandeis University Students studying on the Brandeis Mid Years in London Program

Both Kenzie & Cody volunteered with GoodGym this semester, a charity organisation who organise group runs which involve helping out a community project along the way. This could be anything from painting a mural to clearing a community garden.

It's been fantastic! I've met many British people and it's made me feel like a local because I can help out with local projects. - Kenzie Provencher

It allowed me to see more of London and meet great local people in the process. I would encourage future students to volunteer because it's a great way to give back to the community. - Cody Adams.

Ally Canfield

Arcadia University Student, FYSAE Program

Ally volunteered at a local Soup Kitchen, helping to prepare, cook and serve meals.

Volunteering helped me get to know people from all over and immerse myself in London. I always wanted to stay longer when I was there, because my volunteering was such a fun experience. It was also something to spend my time doing when some of my friends were in class because we had different schedules. I was sad to see it end, but happy to have had such a wonderful opportunity and experience.

Theresa Weis

Brandeis University Student, Brandeis Mid Years in London Program

Theresa volunteered with St Luke’s Older People’s Project. She helped out at their lunch club, which was created to bring together older people from the local community who are at risk of becoming isolated.

I wanted to continue volunteering because it was a big part of me back home. I’d definitely recommend volunteering to future students, You probably already feel alienated being in a new country. Volunteering helps you not only meet new people on your program but also locals.

Thank you to all our students who signed up to volunteer and have made a difference this semester! We are now busy working on getting more opportunities lined up ready for the Spring and look forward to being able to share these with future students in the new year...