When I started studying Biomedical Science at the University of York, I knew I wanted to make the most of my university experience beyond academics. Throughout my time at York, I have been fortunate to take part in activities that allowed me to support others, develop valuable skills, and contribute to both the local and student communities. Two of the most rewarding experiences have been volunteering at Nelsons Court and serving as President of First Love Society.
Volunteering at Nelsons Court
One of my most meaningful experiences was volunteering at Nelsons Court in York. I wanted to get involved because I enjoy working with people and wanted to contribute positively to the local community.
My role involved supporting residents through a range of activities designed to encourage social interaction, creativity, and wellbeing. I regularly played dominoes with residents, which created opportunities for conversation, friendly competition, and connection. I also helped facilitate play dough activities for residents with limited motor function, supporting them as they engaged in creative exercises that encouraged movement and self-expression.
During the Christmas season, I helped organise cookie decorating sessions, where residents could enjoy a festive activity while socialising with others. These events brought a sense of joy and community, and it was rewarding to see residents engaging enthusiastically and sharing experiences with one another.
The activities benefited residents by reducing social isolation, encouraging participation, and supporting both mental and physical wellbeing. Through this experience, I developed patience, empathy, and communication skills, learning how to adapt my approach to meet the needs of different individuals.
Leading First Love Society
Alongside volunteering, I served as President of First Love Society, a faith-based student society at the University of York. Our primary goal was to cultivate an environment that was open, inclusive, and welcoming to everyone, regardless of faith, belief system, or background. We were committed to providing a holistic experience that supported the personal, spiritual, and academic growth of all our members.
As President, I worked with the committee to organise events and create opportunities for students to connect with one another. Some of our most popular events included games nights and movie nights, which provided relaxed and enjoyable opportunities for students to socialise and build friendships.
We also hosted fellowship sessions, which were particularly meaningful. These meetings created a safe and supportive space where students could openly discuss challenges they were facing, whether related to university life, personal circumstances, or wellbeing. Seeing members feel comfortable enough to share their experiences and support one another reinforced the importance of building strong communities within the university.
The society benefited the student community by helping members feel connected, supported, and included. University can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for students who are living away from home or adjusting to a new environment. Through our activities, we aimed to provide a sense of belonging and friendship for everyone who attended.
What I Learned
Both experiences taught me valuable skills that I will carry forward into my future career. Volunteering at Nelsons Court strengthened my communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities, while leading First Love Society enhanced my leadership, teamwork, event planning, and organisational skills.
As a Biomedical Science student, these experiences have also helped me appreciate the importance of compassion, active listening, and understanding the diverse needs of different individuals. These are qualities that are essential not only in community settings but also in healthcare and scientific professions.
Looking Ahead
Looking back, volunteering and student leadership have been some of the most rewarding parts of my university journey. They allowed me to make a positive impact on both the local and student communities while developing skills that complement my academic studies. Most importantly, they taught me the value of creating supportive environments where people feel welcomed, heard, and encouraged to thrive.
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