Signing up to volunteer with Citywise when I was at University was one of the best decisions I ever made.
I always knew I wanted to work with children in the field of Psychology, and I knew that by volunteering with Citywise I would be able to get some experience. However, I had no idea that it would be so much more than that.
As soon as I started volunteering, I was amazed by the work that Citywise did with young people. Not only did I love the volunteering with children, but I loved how much Citywise taught me. The sessions that we worked on with the children, were so relevant to me as well, learning all about the importance of self-awareness, goal setting, and resilience.
Covering these topics, linked very well to my interests and helped me to discover what I wanted to focus on in my psychology degree. I used so much of what Citywise does, to help with my coursework, and my personal development. I loved every second of being a volunteer.
When my undergraduate degree finished, I wanted to find a way to continue being involved with Citywise. I loved the work that they did with children so much. I began a Masters degree, also in the field of Psychology and alongside this, I started working for Citywise as a Project Leader.
Not only was I so pleased to be back doing amazing work with children, but
Citywise helped me get through my Masters degree. The work they do, fit in perfectly with my modules and interests within my degree. I used Citywise resources within university projects, based on self-awareness and growth, and so many of my course colleagues became interested in them too.
Citywise was the reason I became so interested and passionate about encouraging positive youth development and helping young children to
reach their full potential, leading to my Master’s dissertation. Without a doubt, Citywise guided me to where I am today, leading me to discover my interests and passions, and meeting some incredible children and wonderful volunteers along the way.
Through Citywise I gained so much experience. As well as being a mentor, managing a project and leading teams of volunteers I also took part in the running club and signed up for the Great Manchester Run to fundraise! With the team I travelled to Glasgow to help with a fundraising dinner and helped to plan lots of other events and trainings along the way.
I would highly recommend getting involved with Citywise. You might be surprised how much of an impact it can have in both your professional life and your personal life!
Interested in volunteering with Citywise in 2020/21? Sign up to come along to an online welcome event here!
