London’s Volunteering University

We all know that UCL is 'London's Global University', but maybe it's time for the institution to be seen as 'London's Volunteering University'. In 2012/13, over 1735 students participated in 41,500 hours of volunteering, putting UCL at the top of the pile in terms of students giving back to the local community during their studies. Giving a helping hand doesn't just benefit the recipient of the volunteering though, as a recent study by the volunteering departments of eight London universities shows. The research pointed out that volunteers perceived an increase in their personal development in several areas, including greater self-confidence, interest in 'trying new things' and self-discipline. Meanwhile students' communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills also improved through volunteering. 80% of respondents to the joint study said that they were confident in using their volunteering experience in job applications and interviews. The strength of volunteering at UCL is testament to the university's Volunteering Services Unit, which is organised through UCL's student union (UCLU) and funded by the university.