Anchalee Parr was nominated as Volunteer of the Month for her contribution to the Union Development Activities Committee, and also volunteers in a number of different positions across KCLSU.
What does a typical day of volunteering look like for you?
There is no typical day of volunteering for me as the things I volunteer for and do vary from day-to-day and from role to role. I am currently a volunteer for several positions, namely being a member of the Union Development Activities Committee, President at KCL Company Society, Treasurer at King’s Connect, a Student Representative for my academic course and supporting the running of various organisations outside of the university. Each of these roles requires me to do different things so there is a lot of variety in the work I do and the amount of time required each day depends on the tasks. This draws upon the different aspects of the transferable skills that I have but they all share one common aim and that is to give back to the community and make a positive difference to the people around me.
What has been your favourite memory of volunteering?
My favourite memory of volunteering has to be being part of the Activities Committee and having the opportunity to work with really passionate, supportive and kind people who share a common goal of lighting up social aspects of university life. My highlight was being elected as Chair which gave me the opportunity to introduce the “One Community Week”. This is a week in mid-March which bring all societies together with the aim to encourage collaboration amongst student groups, find out about the society mutual mentor scheme and offer them the opportunity to diversify their circles. I have learnt a lot and it has been a memorable experience for me which I will cherish as part of my university chapter.
What is your main motivation to volunteer on the Activities Committee?
Besides already being part of several career-orientated societies, my main motivation to volunteer as part of the Activities Committee has been to use my existing knowledge and practical experience in making a bigger impact to the community which I knew would contribute greatly towards fulfilling my role. I reflected back to when I initially started university as a new student and realised how important societies can really make me feel part of the community. It’s the good memories that I have created which will last a lifetime and when I look back it puts a smile on my face. Furthermore, I am passionate to listen to students’ ideas on developing dynamic student activities, supporting them with their student activities goals and helping them turn into reality which gives me a great sense of purpose. Activities are often eventful and I have the opportunity to meet a lot of new people so there has never really been a dull moment which makes life very interesting.
What have you learnt from your time volunteering?
During my time of volunteering, I have learnt to develop new skills and build on the existing experiences and knowledge that I have acquired. Moreover, by volunteering I can actually make a real difference to people’s lives and even brighten someone’s day which makes life more meaningful and fulfilling for me. I would highly recommend those who have not volunteered before to give it a go and for those who are already involved to keep it up. By helping others, it would also help you and make the world a better place to live, learn and grow. Especially during these times, if each one of us volunteers it will all contribute and go a long way. Volunteering enables you to connect with like-minded people, have the opportunity to work on interesting initiatives or even stand up for something you really believe in and show support. Nothing can beat a heart of gold and a good sense of purpose so let that person be you.