University of Sheffield Volunteering

I've been named University of Sheffield's Alumni Volunteer of the Year for 2020 which I have to say I'm really chuffed about. Over the last few years I've been helping journalism students by mentoring them. For five years I was also a member of the Alumni Board which supports, advises and monitors  the effectiveness of the University’s alumni engagement programme.

I love being able to give back. I remember well what it was like as a student at the University of Sheffield and worrying about how I would break into the world of journalism. Talking to journalists about their careers really helped me back then and now, as a mentor, I have the opportunity to pass on the knowledge that I've acquired. All of the four students I've worked with over the years have been polite, enthusiastic and keen to learn. Two of them are now working for the BBC at a national level and I'm still in touch with them and proud to have played a small part in their success.

I'd really encourage fellow alumni to the University of Sheffield to volunteer, even if you have limited time to be able to do so. You can register your interest and look at the voluntary positions available here.