When you don't have a lot of time or money, it's easy to think that going on trips overseas, having an impact on social justice issues or even studying abroad are impossible goals, but that could not be further from the truth.
In fact, college is the perfect time to seize these opportunities and gain valuable experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Not only will these experiences give you a great sense of accomplishment and open your eyes to different cultures and situations, they can also be great for your resume.
At a time when only 43 percent of employers plan to hire recent college graduates, a figure that was at 56 percent in 2008 and 79 percent in 2007, according to the CareerBuilder.com Annual College Job Forecast, students must do everything they can to make their resumes stand out.
Students who spend their time volunteering overseas, and even locally, will show employers that they are not only determined and hardworking, but also that they are unafraid of unfamiliar environments and stepping outside of their comfort zone.
The passion that drives people to commit to these acts of service, more than anything, is a reflection of their generous character.
UCF senior Melissa Mage and Rollins student Natalia Hoyo left for the war-torn nation of Uganda, located in the heart of Africa, on Monday. They raised $3,000 for their trip through one fundraising effort and by receiving donations. This was not money they made from a minimum wage job or by taking out a student loan.
The funds came from planning, sharing and dedication.
This is a great testament to the fact that if we make our passions a priority, time or money won't ever be an issue.
There are numerous organizations on campus, such as Volunteer UCF and Campus Crusade for Christ, that provide many opportunities for students to serve locally and globally.
The impact students wish to have in these areas can be as far-reaching as their dedication to the issues and people they would like to affect.
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