The Student Volunteering Fair: connecting students with the community

Last month, the Bristol Students’ Union hosted its much-anticipated annual Student Volunteering Fair, as part of Student Volunteering Week.

A busy crowd of students speaking to organisations at their stalls in the Anson Rooms at the Bristol SU Richmond Building.

The fair had a lot to offer, with over 40 organisations showcasing their work and encouraging students to get involved.

From supporting refugees to empowering older people, there was a diverse range of organisations present at the fair and it was an excellent opportunity for students to develop their skills and make meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.

Finding volunteering opportunities that count toward the Bristol PLUS Award.

The volunteering fair offered more than just a chance to meet new people and develop skills. Since volunteering hours can count towards achieving the Bristol PLUS Award (the university’s employability award), the fair was also an ideal platform for students to scout volunteering opportunities for their PLUS Award. We spoke to some of the fair’s student volunteers who were themselves pursuing the Award. These students spoke candidly about their experiences and shared insights into why they signed up for the Award.

How do the PLUS Award and volunteering benefit you?

” I want to gain more experience in fields unrelated to my course and improve my ability to work collaboratively with people. It has been great fun to attend numerous events, such as City Challenges and Hackathon competitions. I’m really excited to continue seeking out opportunities to challenge myself.”

Allen He, BEng Aerospace Engineering student

Allen He standing in front of the crowd at the Student Volunteering Fair. He's wearing glasses and a hoodie.
Archita Dwaram posing in front of the stalls at the Student Volunteering Fair. She is wearing a black top and a lanyard showing that she is a volunteer at the fair.

“I signed up for the Bristol PLUS Award because it provides great opportunities to go out of my way to do volunteering. It’s also very useful because employers are most likely to notice you.”

Archita Dwaram, BSc Accounting and Management student

Overall, the Student Volunteering Fair provided a valuable chance for students to connect with meaningful volunteer opportunities while also earning recognition for their dedication to making a difference in their community.


If you would like to discover a voluntary opportunity for yourself, why not explore the huge range of positions posted on mycareer.

Logo: the words "city challenges"

Our City Challenges programme allows you to work on real-life challenges posed by local community organisations. Fill out the General sign-up form to be kept up to date with new City Challenges.

Our next City Challenge on 22 March is with Bristol Hub, a local branch of a national charity, Student Hubs. Their aim is to mainstream student social and environmental action during their time at university and create active citizens for life. You’ll be part of a team tasked with helping them better engage students in events and volunteering. Sign up on mycareer.