Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

I was recruited into a new post to design and implement an organisation-wide volunteering programme.

My role involves working with staff at all levels to identify areas where volunteers are needed; writing role descriptions; recruiting and selecting volunteers for these roles; training, supporting and supervising these volunteers and eventually exiting them from the organisation.

A further responsibility is communicating the impact of the work of the volunteers to key stakeholders, and ensuring volunteers are recognised for their contribution.

Alongside these key tasks, I also contribute to bid-writing and deliver volunteering-related projects in the local communities across Greater Manchester.

Arrive

Respond to emails from a variety of staff, current and prospective volunteers and voluntary sector organisations. Prepare for my meetings.

Meet 2 or 3 prospective volunteers to interview them at their chosen service, then complete all the administration that follows.

Contact volunteers currently in the recruitment process regarding any issues, and contact people who have shown an interest in volunteering to arrange the application and interview.

Lunch

Strategic meeting with Managers and Directors to update on progress.

Updating new roles on websites and writing my blog, updating social media, and contacting voluntary sector organisations.

Delivery of a training session or workshop designed to engage volunteers with the charity and support their development.

Home

I enjoy the diversity of my role, and the fact I operate across the whole organisation, giving me a really interesting and thorough perspective of the inner working of the charity.

I am a people-person and I live for supporting and developing others, but it can sometimes be very emotionally draining. Some volunteers come to me from difficult circumstances and look to their volunteering as a lifeline, so although this feels rewarding when someone achieves for themself, it can be tough when someone struggles. It's also very difficult juggling the needs and expectations of staff, with the needs and expectations of the volunteers. I would say that this is my biggest challenge within my role.

I knew from a young age that I wanted to do something as a career that would support others to be happy and enable people to enjoy fulfilling lives.

I use many of the skills I gained during University including those from studying, but also those gained from my involvement as Chair of Sheffield RAG. The most important of these are the skills around relationship development and communication.

I am currently undergoing the PTTLS training qualification. I have also completing a wide variety of training including Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults; Working with Mental Health; Data Protection.

I am currently studying for an MSc in Human Resource Management at MMU whilst working full time.

I am currently also Chairman of the board of Trustees of Greater Manchester Youth Network, a medium-sized charity that supports young people to participate, develop and achieve. This is a rewarding and challenging role, working with the rest of the board and the Chief Executive Officer to guide and nurture the organisation.

2011-2012 Volunteer and Training Manager - The Factory Youth Zone (Harpurhey).

2009-2011 Youth Volunteer Adviser - Vinvolved

2008 - 2009 After my last exam I left on my own to travel in Australia which was an incredible experience. Whilst I was away my mum suffered a series of severe strokes. I returned from Australia to care for her and this period was both a huge shock, a very difficult time and a huge learning curve for me, fresh out of University with all my peers embarking on the next stage of their lives.

Following the completion of my MSc next year, I will be searching for the next step of my career into Human Resource Development. Eventually I hope that I will gain sufficient expertise to be able to travel overseas to use my knowledge and experience to help underdeveloped nations.

Use your time at University, not only to gain a good degree, but also to broaden your experience through wider involvement in the University or the city of Sheffield. The opportunities are out there and they will not only enhance your CV, but you'll also have a lot of fun in the process.

Emily  LLB Law (2019)
Policy Officer  (Business, administration and public sector)

Accepts questions from students about their career

Helen  LLB Law (2011)
Solicitor  (Law, defence and public protection)

Accepts questions from students about their career