<p>I'm trying to become more well-rounded before I send off my college applications. After looking at my resume, I realized I'm lacking in the area of community service. Does anyone have any ideas for service projects or how I can volunteer my time in a way that will be appealing to colleges?
Thanks!</p>
<p>It has always been my contention that people shouldn't volunteer for college or for some other reason. They should do it for the sake of doing it. But if you really want to, then try at your local hospital or school.</p>
<p>In case anyone is concerned, I honestly love volunteering and I intend to go at it with my whole heart. I don't plan on treating it as just a way to get into the college of my choice.</p>
<p>Sorry if I made a premature conclusion, but I just dislike it when people say, "I'm volunteering at the hospital so I can get into ____." But yea, I found my hospital to be the most convenient place to volunteer. Maybe a soup kitchen or senior citizens' home?</p>
<p>I'll be sure to look into that. Thanks!</p>
<p>Start a tutoring program.</p>
<p>Volunteer in something that you love to do.</p>
<p>If you love animals, I would suggest you volunteer at an animal shelter. Make sure to say you want to do fundraising because that involves projects.</p>
<p>I don't know about you, but where I live, the hospital is soo hard to get a volunteer position. It's probably harder than an elite internship! I called in December and they said they didn't have any positions open until November! Then I would have to fill out an application with three recommendations, have an interview, and volunteer for a day to be evaluated....</p>
<p>Look into local websites. Those always have volunteering opportunities. Call local nursing homes. Start a tutoring program. </p>
<p>search: volunteermatch, idealist.org</p>
<p>What interests you? What are you planning to study? Volunteering in an area that is meaningful to you personally is a good starting point. I think volunteering where others don't is a good idea. Are you a senior?</p>
<p>I work at a daycare center for underprivileged kids and love it. Look around and ask people you know for recommendations-- they would know better than any CCer what opportunities are in your area.</p>
<p>I am a senior. I plan on majoring in early childhood education with a minor in music after high school.</p>
<p>Ok, so volunteer tutoring children at a local elementary school, or just help out in an afterschool program. You can also probably help out at a local music program for younger children, or maybe organize a program for children to go play at a senior citizens’ home (helping the children and the senior citizens at the same time – that’ll actually probably be the most rewarding for everyone). Or think of your own project, if none of these ideas appeal to you; there are lots of opportunities to combine those interests into a meaningful volunteer program. Just have fun with it and do something that interests you.</p>
<p>Where does one get recommendations from during the summer? Obviously, school's out, so teachers aren't an option.</p>
<p>I agree with Star*... have the volunteer experience fit you, and you will really enjoy it. Besides helping others, you will benefit because you'll find out if you enjoy working in the field you intend to major/minor in.</p>