My volunteering experience has given me the opportunity to understand systems and communities that I wouldn’t otherwise be aware of – getting a fuller picture of how society works is very important to my training towards being an architect
Yin Kue Constance Hui MArch Architecture
How would you describe your volunteering experience?
My volunteering experience has been truly rewarding. It has given me an insight into and the opportunity to understand systems and communities that I wouldn’t otherwise be aware of – getting a fuller picture of how society works is very important to my training towards being an architect and helps me reflect on how building can help empower different community groups. It has also given me the chance to fit an activity completely different into my weekly routine, allowing me to take my mind off my stressful coursework while feeling a sense of satisfaction from doing something meaningful for society. The organisations and charities have always been very understanding when I’ve had to prioritise my studies near deadlines and happy for me to take breaks, which has made it a lot less stressful for me at desperate times.
What skills have you learnt through volunteering?
Working with Sight Support West opened my eyes to the different sight conditions present in our community and the importance of visual contrast for them to use their residual sight. As an architecture student we had not been taught to design for visual accessibility, so this experience has prompted me to apply the principles to spatial design, as well as to raise awareness within our academy and profession. I have designed or redesigned and produced over 10 documents or graphics since volunteering with them which have all been used / in use. Graphic design has always been an area that I do on the side of architecture, and I will carry on, while keeping the principles of visual accessibility in mind in both fields of design.
My work with Fareshare was completely new to me and gave me real insight and awareness of the social issue of food insecurity as well as the food system in Bristol. My contribution has been physical work rather than ideas so far. If after graduation my work schedule still allows, I will carry on volunteering.
With both experiences, I have developed communication and organisation skills and a sense of responsibility; my graphic design skills specifically for a visually impaired audience; learnt how to work in a warehouse and the associated health & safety measures; learnt about the food supply chain and local centres which help redistribute food to deprived communities.
Would you recommend volunteering to other students?
Without a doubt! It helps broaden our horizons, and improve our time management, diplomatic skills and ability to work within a team – all essential skills for your future career. Not to mention that for many of these charities, each one of us count. All in all, you get to meet a lot of kind-hearted people from all walks of life and feel good about yourself!