Want an Education in the “School of Life”? Try Volunteering

Recent statistics from UCAS reveal that applications to universities have decreased by almost 9% nationwide and nearly 10% in England. This decline represents approximately 45,000 individuals who have chosen not to pursue university education. This shift coincides with a significant tuition fee hike from £3,000 to £9,000 per year, affecting mature students the most.

Having worked at the University of Glasgow, I’ve seen firsthand how a diverse mix of people enriches the university experience. So, what deters mature students? It might be their ability to better assess the debt implications of increased tuition fees. However, volunteering presents a viable alternative for those seeking to retrain, learn new skills, and improve their social mobility.

Volunteering: Igniting a Lifelong Commitment

Volunteering offers real value, especially for mature students aiming to boost their social mobility. With financial barriers in place, volunteering becomes an excellent alternative for life changes, skill acquisition, and self-improvement. Employers highly regard volunteering on a resume, adding value to UCAS applications too.

In Glasgow, I volunteered at a special needs center for young adults, which was profoundly rewarding. This experience highlighted that education doesn’t stop at 25, and volunteering can complement formal education. You can explore more about the benefits of volunteering in our Education Mentoring Volunteering section.

Education Comes in Many Forms

While my Business degree seemed less relevant initially, it equipped me with confidence and skills I used to assist a center in securing funds and organizing events. If mature students are deterred by rising fees but wish to retrain, volunteering can offer education in another form. Discover how Student Volunteering Changed My Life.

Volunteering, combined with studying, offers education in the “school of life,” as demonstrated by inspiring stories from Student Volunteering Week. Sometimes, volunteering may be the most valuable option available in the short term.

Explore more about how volunteering can impact your education and career by checking out Can the Value of Experience Outweigh the Need for Qualifications?.