Learn. Lead. Stand Out: Why Volunteering in College is Your Secret Career Advantage

In today’s competitive job market, having a high GPA and a well-crafted resume isn’t enough. As the job market shifts and grows more competitive, employers are looking beyond traditional qualifications. Today’s top candidates stand out not just for their skills, but for their hands-on experience, leadership potential and a strong alignment with the company’s core values and culture. 

The good news? You don’t need to wait until graduation to start building those qualities – you can start right now. That's where volunteering and community leadership make a real difference. These experiences not only feel rewarding and contribute to a great cause, but also build the professional skills and personal growth that today's employers value.

Building Real World Skills

When you volunteer, you're not just giving your time, you’re gaining invaluable experience. Whether you're organizing a fundraiser, promoting a cause, or managing an event, you're building transferable skills that apply across industries: communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork.

The Cookies for Kids’ Cancer College Ambassador Program offers a variety of ways to get involved and build those skills. 

You can:

• Host a tabling event on your campus to raise awareness for our mission.

• Participate in national initiatives like the Go Gold for Kids’ Cancer campaign, that raises funds for research.

• Serve as a liaison to make Cookies for Kids’ Cancer your club or organization’s philanthropy.

• Gain hands-on experience in professional skills like marketing, communications, event planning and public speaking.

The Desirability of Leadership

Taking on leadership positions, whether through a student org, campus event or nonprofit initiative, shows that you’re not just involved, you’re invested. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers rank leadership as one of the top attributes they seek in job candidates.

Leadership teaches you how to plan, delegate, motivate and adapt- essential qualities for any career. And when you’re asked in an interview to “tell me about a time you led a project,” you’ll have real, impactful stories to share. That’s where the Cookies for Kids’ Cancer College Ambassador Program comes in. By spearheading fundraising events, raising awareness and engaging your campus community, you’ll gain meaningful leadership experience while making a difference in the lives of children fighting cancer. It’s a chance to build your resume and your character, all while being part of something bigger than yourself.

It’s More than a Resume Line- It’s a Story

Volunteering and leadership don’t just enhance your resume, they help you develop a personal narrative that sets you apart. It’s one thing to list your accomplishments; it’s another to tell a compelling story about why you got involved, how you led a team or what impact you helped create. This gives your resume depth and authenticity, leading to useful conversations in interviews and connecting with employers.

Involvement in meaningful causes also signals to employers that you’re socially conscious and mission-driven. These traits align with the growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility and workplace culture in today’s organizations. 

Start Now, Shine Later

Volunteering and leadership during college aren’t just good deeds – they’re moves that can help you thrive in your career. You’ll build confidence, develop professional skills and make connections that last beyond a college campus.

So if you’re ready to stand out- start here. Email Emily at emily@beagoodcookie.org to join the Cookies for Kids’ Cancer College Ambassador Program today. Your future self (and future recruiter) will thank you.