I really like my job (but what to do about my volunteer job)

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Buffaloboy92
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

Joined: 18 Sep 2017
Age: 32
Gender: Male
Posts: 59
Location: Buffalo, NY

30 Jan 2019, 4:30 pm

Ever since my time out of college I could not have been more proud of myself. I went through at least three jobs (one a rehire) until I found the right one that matches my degree in all three fields (office, hospitality, and history). I swallowed all I could take of menial task jobs and making it look fresh on my resume. The only exception is I might be leaving my volunteer job soon in a couple weeks cause of barely finding time to volunteer to help the veterans out at the VA hospital. I was in patient escort for 6 1/2 years. I found out I can only work Tuesday to Saturday full-time shifts after holidays and our one (return to work) receptionist is out on maternity leave to be reassigned after labor. They need me full time as I mainly work Monday to Friday and don’t have time to volunteer. Any suggestions on how I could make that VA job count towards future jobs I want to apply for if I stay at my current job long enough to gain professional experience?



BeaArthur
Veteran
Veteran

Joined: 11 Aug 2015
Posts: 5,798

31 Jan 2019, 11:36 am

Six and a half years at a volunteer job is quite impressive, and demonstrates commitment and a community service orientation. If you need to stop now, nobody could fault you. A lot of volunteers just do not work out and are gone within a month or two.

It belongs on your resume, for sure, but whether to put it under work experience or volunteer/community service headings is up to you and whatever else is on the resume.

If you have had a good connection with your supervisor at the VA, that person might make a good reference. I repeat: six-plus years continuing volunteer work is a real plus, something you should be proud of.


_________________
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Buffaloboy92
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker

Joined: 18 Sep 2017
Age: 32
Gender: Male
Posts: 59
Location: Buffalo, NY

31 Jan 2019, 1:25 pm

Yes it could look good on my resume and after like 6 1/2 years of service I could put it to nearly any reference with the next job after my current one. A VA hospital has been the largest building I’ve ever worked in (volunteered wise). I think my next job might be in a bigger building one day. Civil service wise puts you in an administrative building. It helps a lot to look but also I could work in another medical setting given that kind of career. Wonder what else could be out there to make enough income to support a family someday or mortgage in a two story house. I got plenty of time with my current job right now as I plan on staying longer to build up more experience.