When I started college at Michigan State University in the fall of 2023, I was excited about all the usual things—new friends, interesting classes, campus life, and figuring out what I wanted to do with my career. But one thing I knew for sure before even setting foot on campus was that I didn’t want to lose sight of giving back.
Growing up in Birmingham, Michigan, volunteering was always part of my life. My mom, Jennifer, started a charity called My Story, and from a young age I helped her collect and donate journals and art supplies to kids in shelters. We also adopted local families over the holidays, helped with food drives, and gave back in other small but meaningful ways. That shaped how I see the world and taught me that no matter how busy life gets, there’s always room to help someone else.
In college, I’ve found that keeping this “conscience” alive—not just doing well academically, but doing good for others—makes everything more meaningful. And while it might seem overwhelming to balance volunteering with classes, clubs, and social life, it’s actually easier than you think once you know where to look.
Start with What You Care About
The first thing I learned about volunteering in college is that it has to start with something you genuinely care about. For me, that’s working with kids, creative arts, Jewish community work, and family-centered causes. That’s why I volunteer with Chabad at MSU, where I help with holiday events, meals, and activities that bring students together and keep us connected to our roots. I also support national organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and donate to causes like ALS and the Care House of Oakland County.
You don’t have to pick something big or dramatic to make a difference. Maybe you love animals—volunteer at a shelter. Maybe you’re good at tutoring—help younger students with homework. If you love the environment, there are clean-up projects and sustainability groups on most campuses. The best way to stay consistent with volunteering is to choose something that energizes you, not something that feels like another obligation.
Use Campus Resources
Colleges are full of opportunities—you just have to ask. One of the best places to start is your university’s student involvement or service-learning office. At MSU, we have a volunteer portal where students can browse service projects, local partnerships, and even sign up for one-time events like food drives or community clean-ups.
Another great resource is student clubs. Joining a club that already has a service component built in makes it so much easier to get involved. Through my participation in Jewish student organizations and fashion clubs, I’ve been able to combine things I love with causes I care about.
If you’re unsure where to begin, go to your campus involvement fair, sign up for email lists, or even ask your professors. Some classes at MSU actually require service hours as part of the curriculum, which is such a great way to get your feet wet.
Make Time in Small Doses
One of the biggest misconceptions about volunteering as a student is that it takes up too much time. Sure, we’re all busy with classes, studying, internships, and maybe even part-time jobs (shoutout to my summer work as a camp counselor at Elena Victoria Camps). But giving back doesn’t have to be a huge commitment.
Some of my favorite volunteer moments have been small—helping set up for a campus charity event, dropping off donated items to a shelter, or making care packages for local families. These quick acts of kindness don’t just help others—they also make you feel good in the middle of a stressful college week. They remind you that you’re part of something bigger.
Connect with Local Organizations
Don’t be afraid to look beyond campus, too. Local nonprofits are often thrilled to have college students involved, especially if you’re willing to bring friends. Whether it’s tutoring at a community center, helping at a soup kitchen, or joining in a seasonal giving program, these organizations always need extra hands.
Over the holidays, I still make time to work with my family to adopt local families in need and provide them with gifts. It’s something we’ve done for years and one of the most grounding traditions I have. Even though I’m away at school most of the year, being part of that process reminds me where I came from and why giving back will always be a part of who I am.
The Impact Goes Both Ways
What I’ve realized through all of this is that volunteering isn’t just about checking a box or doing something nice for someone else—it actually shapes you. It’s helped me develop leadership skills, stay humble, and connect with people from all different backgrounds. It’s made my college experience richer and more well-rounded.
Being a student isn’t just about getting good grades or planning your future career. It’s about becoming the kind of person you want to be. And for me, that means being someone who shows up—for my community, for my values, and for people who need a little extra support.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a student wondering how to get started with volunteering, my advice is simple: just start. Pick something small, do it with heart, and let it grow from there. You don’t have to be perfect or have everything figured out. What matters most is your willingness to help.
College goes by fast, but the impact you make—on your community, your campus, and yourself—can last forever. And trust me, giving back feels a lot better than just going through the motions.
You’ve got a lot to offer. Don’t be afraid to use it.