My Journey as a BPS Volunteer Student Ambassador: A Transformative Experience! By Sana Rehman

Introduction to the role

Embarking on the journey of being a volunteer student ambassador for the British Psychological Society (BPS) wasn’t just a decision—it was a game-changer. Little did I know, this journey would not only deepen my understanding of psychology but also sculpt my personal growth in ways I never imagined possible.

As a proud BPS Student Ambassador, my role goes beyond just lending a helping hand; it’s about being the bridge between budding psychology enthusiasts, the BPS, and our esteemed universities. From organising dynamic events to sparking lively discussions, the ambassadorship allows me to be the beacon of inspiration for students venturing into the realm of psychology. And let me tell you, having the opportunity to volunteer for a professional body like the BPS? It’s like having a golden ticket on your CV! Plus, it means access to an array of exclusive BPS events, free mental health training, and the chance to build your very own network of future colleagues and collaborators. For more details about the perks, you can visit the BPS website.

Encouraging All Students

I understand that some students might feel overwhelmed or lack self-confidence when considering these opportunities. Trust me, I was in your shoes. The key is to start small and gradually build your confidence. You don’t have to do everything at once. Engage in events and activities that interest you and slowly expand your involvement. Don’t forget the psychology society and careers team are there to help you with any ideas or help you plan them. Remember that every expert was once a beginner. Embrace the learning curve, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The BPS community is supportive and encouraging, and there are plenty of people who would be happy to guide you.

Personal Growth and Development

I never thought I could become so confident that I would be liaising with students, universities, and the BPS. The best part was that the BPS informed my university that I was the BPS ambassador, so I didn’t have to message anyone to begin with to tell them that I was representing Royal Holloway, which I felt comfortable with as it feels quite daunting to reach out first. From being a shy first-year student, who had no idea of what my psychology degree would entail and what benefits were on offer for me, to now as a third-year student, who is looking for my next career steps, I am extremely confident with where my degree can lead me. I know being involved with the BPS has helped me incredibly with helping my future decisions to pursue a career within the psychology field.

The opportunities I have gained through just the knowledge of the BPS are incredible! If someone had told me I was about to write an article to encourage psychology students in a psychology magazine, I would not have believed them. Surprisingly, that’s an opportunity I sought out through my BPS connections! Better yet, if someone had told me I was invited to talk to other undergraduates, professors, and the BPS president about my dissertation topic at the University of Aberdeen, that would have been a dream which has now become a reality. Don’t underestimate the connections you can gain through volunteering! You could be doing things you never thought of doing.

Role, Responsibilities, and Activities

From a student perspective I was able to help/encourage students in the different paths within psychology they could take. That’s exactly what being a BPS student ambassador entails! It’s not just about sharing information; it’s about igniting sparks of curiosity and ambition in fellow students across all academic levels.

I am armed with insider knowledge about the vast array of career paths within psychology, from clinical to educational and everything in between. But here’s the beauty of it—I’m not just helping others navigate their future; I’m also charting my own course towards success. Which is why this role was so important to me during my third year.

Networking

I’m the master of my own schedule. Whether I’m juggling lectures, assignments, and a part-time job, there’s always room to lend a hand as a BPS student ambassador. A minimum of 2 hours per week should be dedicated to volunteering, and this can be done in any form such as creating social media content, talking to current students, etc. I also have the choice to collaborate with the Psychological Society. Consider it a networking goldmine. From hosting eye-catching stalls to teaming up with the careers service, my main mission is to ensure that every psychology student knows the boundless benefits that come with BPS membership. If your Psychology degree is accredited by the BPS, wouldn’t you want to know what they can offer you?

But here’s the golden rule: I make the most of the resources at my disposal. Every connection, every opportunity—it’s all a stepping stone towards my future. Who knows? That chance encounter at a career fair or that insightful conversation with a fellow student could be the catalyst for my next big breakthrough. So, I seize every moment, embrace every opportunity, and your journey can unfold in ways you’ve never imagined possible!

Conclusion

The importance of volunteerism and community engagement in personal and professional development cannot be overstated. Through my role as a BPS student ambassador, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of giving back to the community, lending a helping hand to those in need, and being a catalyst for positive change. It’s not just about what we gain from these experiences, but about the ripple effect they create, shaping the world around us in ways both seen and unseen.

• Volunteerism broadens horizons and deepens understanding.
• Engaging with professional organisations like the BPS fosters invaluable connections.
• Personal growth and confidence are significant rewards of such roles.
• Small steps can lead to significant opportunities; don’t be afraid to start small and work your way gradually matching your own pace.

To those who may be considering similar opportunities for growth and impact, I urge you to take that leap of faith. Whether it’s volunteering for a professional organisation, joining a community initiative, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Not only do these experiences broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world, but they also nurture our souls and ignite a passion for making a difference.