Over the course of time, volunteer in more than one setting, so that you have the opportunity to learn and practice more than one important skill. For example, volunteering in an emergency room mainly involves observing, assisting and listening, yet volunteering as a tutor or teachers' aide in an elementary school will develop your interpersonal, teaching and listening skills as you interact with your students. Volunteer work should be taken seriously. You will be counted on to fill a special need. Be visible by doing your job well.
Actions speak louder than words.
These qualities make a positive impression with the staff and may serve you well in the future when seeking letters of reference for professional or graduate school, or when seeking their assistance in your future job search. Sources for volunteering include local clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, community and religious organizations, faculty research projects and research laboratories. Volunteer positions can range from hotline counselors, hospital and teacher's aides to political campaigners, legal aides and other paraprofessionals. You need not limit your volunteer search to these positions or organizations. Most organizations enthusiastically accept volunteers.