Swami Hinojosa
Editor-in-Chief
When considering college, most students typically focus on selecting the right major, finding the best institution, and meeting academic requirements. Nevertheless, it’s important to emphasize the significance of volunteering. Volunteering offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to society and enhance soft skills essential for personal and professional growth. It provides numerous indispensable advantages in the professional arena, including developing problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills. These capabilities benefit the work environment and enrich social interactions, enabling individuals to relate more effectively with others.
Volunteering offers an exciting chance to network and connect with individuals in your chosen professional field. These connections can catalyze personal and professional growth, providing opportunities to learn from others, share experiences, and receive valuable advice. It’s a thrilling journey of development and building meaningful connections.
During the previous semester, I had the chance to participate in a student government event that underscored the significance of volunteering. The event featured two special guests, one of whom was Julia Lucidi. Over the past 15 years, she has been dedicated to developing strategies that foster the growth of innovation communities globally. She is the CEO and founder of Founder Tactics, a consulting agency specializing in establishing entrepreneurial communities. She regularly participates in the Fort Lauderdale Tech Meetup, collaborating with clients to build transformative entrepreneurial communities for their organizations and brands.
I had the privilege of participating in one of Lucidi’s volunteering events, which was a fantastic experience. Volunteering enabled me to connect with newcomers and assist them in integrating and maximizing their event experience. Additionally, I gained insight into various work domains and collaborated with individuals passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship. If you are considering a career in event management, this opportunity would be a valuable addition to your resume.
Whether you’re still in high school and need to complete volunteer hours or if you’re a young professional looking to grow, events like the Fort Lauderdale Tech Meetup offer a wealth of opportunities. From taking photos and contacting people to conducting interviews and supporting event planning and logistics, there’s a role for everyone. It’s about finding the right fit for you and making a difference in your community.
The work teams at these events are diverse and allow you to get involved in different areas, such as welcoming attendees, guiding them to conference rooms, supporting them with questions, and ensuring everything is planned and organized. In addition, you can follow Julia Lucidi’s advice and stay up to date on new events and opportunities by following the @ftltechmeetup account on social media.
In summary, volunteering isn’t just about giving back to society; it’s also about personal growth. It’s an opportunity to cultivate skills essential for professional and personal development. These transformative experiences can motivate you to learn, evolve, and foster connections within your community. Never underestimate the power of these experiences. Seek opportunities to learn, develop, and connect with others in your community. If you’re interested in volunteering, feel free to contact me.
Hinos2@mail.broward.edu
Caption: Students at Tech Meetup in August. Photo by Swami Hinojosa