Beavers are leveraging service for career growth during the OSU Days of Service and beyond

By Karla Rockhold, Senior Director II of Alumni Career Engagement, OSU Alumni Association   

As the days grow longer and communities come alive, May is the perfect time to think differently about growth — not just in your career, but in your impact. One of the most powerful (and often overlooked) ways to do both is through volunteering.  

Too often, volunteering is seen as something separate from career development, something “extra” you do when you have time. In reality, it can be a strategic, high-impact way to gain experience, expand your network and clarify your professional direction. 

Why volunteering matters for your career 

Whether you’re exploring a new direction, building experience or expanding your network, volunteering can help bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to go.  

Here’s how: 

• Skill development: Build hands-on experience in leadership, project management, marketing, data analysis, technical skills and more. 

• Résumé building: Demonstrate initiative, impact and adaptability — especially valuable during career transitions. 

• Networking opportunities: Develop authentic relationships with professionals, community leaders and fellow volunteers. People hire those they know and trust. 

• Career clarity: Test-drive new roles or industries before making a full commitment. Each volunteer experience can serve as a “micro-experiment” that informs your next move. 

Be intentional about your impact 

To get the most out of volunteering, align your efforts with your goals. Seek opportunities that help you build specific skills or connect with people in fields that interest you. Treat your volunteer role professionally, track your impact, ask for feedback and don’t hesitate to include this experience on your résumé, LinkedIn and OSU Connections profiles, and in interview stories.

Strengthening your community the OSU way 

May is especially meaningful for those connected to Oregon State. OSU’s strong culture of service brings together alumni, students, employees and friends through the annual OSU Days of Service, a global initiative that mobilizes the Beaver network to support communities near and far through volunteering. Projects span causes such as environmental sustainability, food security and education. Learn more about participating in or leading a project. 

Start moving in the right direction 

When you align your skills and interests with volunteering, you don’t just strengthen your community — you move your career forward.  

Interested in hearing how OSU alumni have leveraged volunteering to shape their careers? Join our upcoming Ask Alumni webcast, Transform Your Career & Community Through Volunteering on Wednesday, May 13 at 5:30 p.m.