WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER FOR WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY?
CHERYL: My experiences at Washington University were life changing. I could not have imagined a better college experience, and I try to maintain connections wherever I can now that I have graduated. It’s important to me that I give back to the school and help other students have a wonderful experience, as I did.
MIKE: I enjoy giving back the time, effort and resources that were invested in me when I was a student. I enjoy staying involved and connected to the campus community. I agree with the university’s mission, and I want to do what I can to further that cause.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR CURRENT VOLUNTEER ROLES?
CHERYL: I love when I interact directly with the students. It was not that long ago I was in their shoes, and I can still relate to what students are going through. I enjoy sharing my experiences and some of the lessons I have learned. Helping students prepare for the “real” world is important to me. I like to remind them that they have university contacts and networks they can depend on as they progress through their careers, and that the Wash. U. community extends far beyond the classroom and the beautiful campus!
MIKE: My volunteer roles allow me to meet and engage with a host of different people, whom I may not have met otherwise. I like helping alumni stay involved with the engineering school. I truly enjoy seeing alumni, current students (whose caliber blows me away) and professors come together to discuss their interests and research and how it is changing society for the better.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ALUMNI WHO ARE CONSIDERING VOLUNTEERING AT THE UNIVERSITY?
CHERYL: I suggest they really take time to find areas to volunteer in that are most meaningful to them. Find your passion, and you will be energized to provide the best service back to the university.
MIKE: Volunteering is an excellent way to stay connected to the school and the community. It’s a great way to see what’s happening on campus and how the work done by students and faculty affects society. It’s fulfilling because it benefits students and enriches your own life. I think it actually keeps me feeling young!
To learn more about volunteering, visit the Alumni Association website at alumni.wustl.edu. You can also contact the Alumni Association at alumniassociation@wustl.edu or call (314) 935-7378 or (800) 867-ALUM (toll-free).
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