Here at GoGlobal, we like to feature students and their achievements – it’s why we promote opportunities to you all! In this article, we’re featuring Smita Poojary, an international student on an MBA Placement.

Why did you want to join the Culture Connect mentor scheme, and what were you hoping to get out of it?

The main aim of participating in this scheme was to learn about a different culture and meet new people. I wanted to learn how cultures vary and find out about people’s experiences of living in other parts of the world . I wanted to explore more about how cultures vary but do have a common base.

How has being on the scheme benefited you?

I got a good friend in my mentee; in addition, it has motivated me to develop my skills which I have not been able to dedicate enough time to during my studies. It was an independent process where in the mentor and mentee had the freedom of meeting at a place and time convenient to them. Nothing is enforced upon you, no particular rules, and no specific topics of discussions. We could discuss any topic of our choice, leading to more cultural exchange of thoughts and experiences. This flexibility meant that I could fit the scheme around my studies, meaning my work and research wasn’t interrupted by my mentoring schedule.

What are you aspirations for the future?

Through the cultural awareness I have gained by participating in this scheme, I have been able to evolve as a person. I can interact with new people more effectively now, and I do not feel nervous or weird going to places where I do not know anyone. I am more comfortable with myself and the environment I am in; my journey as a mentor has helped me give back to the university in some way.

We love to hear from students who have had a positive experience by being a part of our schemes; if you’d like to be featured on our blog, then please email us here and we can make it happen!

If you’d like to know more about the Culture Connect scheme, then please visit here.

All Sheffield Hallam students can take part in SHSU Volunteering’s One-Off programme. This allows you to take part in short term voluntary activities, meet the local community and have a great time while you’re at it! To sign up, simply go here. We refund all travel expenses and food expenses where possible so there’s nothing to lose – why not try out one of our exciting opportunities below?

Sunday 8^th May: Bucket Collection – Sheffield United v Scunthorpe
11.30am – 2pm
Join local children’s hospice Bluebell Wood as they raise money for their causes outside Sheffield United’s football stadium. All volunteers will receive a free match ticket after their shift.

Friday 20^th May: Gardening – Young Women’s Housing Project
10am – 4pm
The Young Women’s Housing Project look after survivors of sexual and domestic abuse. They are looking for volunteers to help with some gardening to create a welcoming atmosphere for the women housed on site. Please note that this opportunity is open to self-defining women only.

Friday 20^th May, Saturday 21^st May, Sunday 22^nd May: Boccia England Competition
9am – 5pm
The authority for the Paralympic sport of Boccia are looking for students to assist with their national competitions which are taking place in Sheffield. You will be involved with timekeeping and scoring. Full training will be provided on the day, and no knowledge of the sport is required. All volunteers will receive a free t-shirt and lunch!

Saturday 28^th May & Sunday 29^th May: Abbeydale Picture House community day
10am – 4pm
Join members of the local community as they work to restore the Abbeydale Picture House, a 100 year old cinema  in the heart of Sheffield’s Antiques Quarter. This is a great chance to be involved with the community and to see an important part of Sheffield’s history up close!

Saturday 28^th May: Taste Moor event volunteers
10am – 4pm
Taste Moor is a food festival taking place on The Moor in Sheffield. Volunteers will take part in demonstrations, activities and other stewarding duties to assist the smooth running of this vibrant, fun festival!

Friday 3^rd June: Gardening – Young Women’s Housing Project
10am – 4pm
The Young Women’s Housing Project look after survivors of sexual and domestic abuse. They are looking for volunteers to help with some gardening to create a welcoming atmosphere for the women housed on site. Please note that this opportunity is open to self-defining women only.

Wednesday 15^th June: RSPCA
9am – 4pm
The RSPCA take care of endangered animals in the city. Volunteers at this day will help walk dogs, clean out the animals’ accommodation and assist with the varied work that the RSPCA do.

Monday 20^th – Sunday 26^th June: Refugee Week at Theatre Deli
Various shifts available
Theatre Delicatessen in Sheffield is hosting an exciting week of events for Refugee Week. Volunteers will assist with the running of events and will have the chance to be part of an exciting series of activities with people from all over the world!

Wednesday 13^th July: RSPCA
9am – 4pm
The RSPCA take care of endangered animals in the city. Volunteers at this day will help walk dogs, clean out the animals’ accommodation and assist with the varied work that the RSPCA do.

To sign up to any of our exciting opportunities, visit https://www.hallamstudentsunion.com/get_involved/volunteering/oneoffopportunities/