Fun, friendship and employable skills: why becoming a trustee was one of my greatest decisions at university
As the student trustee secretary for the past three years, my experience has been incredible! I’ve gained crucial organisation and administration skills, managing tasks ranging from setting up grouped emails using Outlook to ensuring accurate trustee contact information and handling filings with The Charities Commission . Additionally, I’ve developed the ability to coordinate room bookings, create agendas, compile minutes, and prepare necessary paperwork vital for our charity’s operations. Serving as a trustee has provided invaluable insights into charity governance, significantly influencing my career path. This experience empowered me to expand my impact by becoming a director for another charity in South Wales, where I’ve used the skills and knowledge gained at Discovery. Furthermore, I’ve recently become a paid volunteer coordinator for a local charity, drawing from my understanding and experiences of volunteer coordination at Discovery. While initially unfamiliar with bureaucratic environments, I’ve adapted and excelled, actively contributing to significant decisions at Discovery, such as implementing staff pay rises and piloting a four-day work week to ensure employee well-being. These experiences have deepened my understanding of trusteeship, charity management, and the legal obligations. Though I’m stepping down from the role of secretary, I remain dedicated to Discovery as a trustee, and hope to be around for a little while longer yet!
Being a trustee at Discovery has shaped my future career trajectory. It ignited a passion for the charity sector within me and inspired a PhD proposal, which I’m now nearing the completion of my second year. The experience as a trustee has already significantly altered the course of my career, providing me with invaluable insights and skills that I will undoubtedly carry forward in my future career.
Becoming a trustee is an incredibly rewarding experience that offers valuable insights, skills, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embrace the chance to make a difference, learn new things, and contribute to meaningful causes. You won’t regret it!
As a trustee, I’ve been fortunate to experience many significant and memorable moments during my time with Discovery. Hosting a volunteer social event stands out as one of the highlights, where we enjoyed a lively pub quiz and delicious pizza. Stepping into the role of the comic host, I relished the opportunity to create a fun and light-hearted atmosphere, embracing the camaraderie among volunteers! Representing Discovery in various capacities has been another enriching aspect of my journey. Whether presenting to business students, participating in Discovery fairs, or engaging at International Student Welcome Events, I’ve LOVED sharing the impactful work of our charity with others. Our events are always brimming with little goodies and sweets, adding to the enjoyment of course! While these fun events hold a special place in my memory, it’s the moments of support during challenging times that have truly resonated with me. Throughout my tenure, Discovery has been an unwavering source of support during both highs and lows in my life. From navigating health conditions and treatments to embracing my personal identities and supporting my daughter’s transition to comprehensive school, Discovery has been a pillar of strength and inclusivity. Kirsty, our invaluable resource in Special Education Needs, has played a crucial role in guiding me through these challenges and advocating for positive changes, not only for my daughter but for other children in similar situations. Discovery’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion makes it a beacon of leadership in this regard, and I am proud to have been part of such a supportive and transformative organisation.
If you want to be a Discovery Trustee go here to find out more: https://discoverysvs.org/discovery-trustees/
Written by Nat Jarvis, PhD student & Discovery Secretary
