The Iglu Guide | Blog
5 ways to give back that won’t cost a cent
Living on a budget is part and parcel of student life. But when you’re struggling to stretch out your weekly food shop, or thinking twice about your next social hangout, finding some spare cash for a worthy cause might feel like a bridge too far. But here’s the thing… giving back doesn’t have to hit you where it hurts. There are plenty of ways to make a meaningful difference as a student that simply require some time, your skills and a little creativity. Here’s 5 ways to turn all that good intention into reality, without so much as opening your wallet.
1. Volunteer your time
Volunteering a little of your time on a regular basis is every student’s secret weapon. It has many and varied benefits, from improving your overall wellbeing and giving a sense of purpose, right through to enhancing your employability rating and bumping up your resumé. But above all, it helps you give something back to your wider community in ways that are incredibly meaningful. All it takes is a bit or organisation, and a little time out your schedule.
- Join local community events, clean-ups, or charity drives – these can be done as a ‘one-off events’ if you are struggling to find a regular time to commit in your schedule.
- Offer to help out at a student club or society that has a cause close to your heart such as sustainability, sport, or supporting girls in education — it also builds connections with other like-minded students.
- Volunteer online and offer non-profit organisations some editing, translating, or social media support.
2. Share your skills
Skills or knowledge that you may simply take for granted have the potential to make a huge difference to someone else’s life. This isn’t about being an expert in a particular field, it’s about identifying where you can be of help, and having the willingness and motivation to share your experience.
- Academic support can be of huge value to other students, whether that’s in a study group with peers, or through tutoring younger students. Collaboration over competition represents the height of student maturity, and it has a massive feel-good factor.
- Language or cultural exchange is a great way to help others integrate into society in ways that cannot be bought. The opportunity to have greater insight into social etiquette and Aussie slang is like striking gold for many international students, and it also gives you the chance to learn something new in exchange.
- Share some practical skills or hobbies such as cooking tips, bike repairs or study notes on a group chat or private message board within your student accommodation.
3. Donate or swap
We all have items we don’t use or need, just hanging around collecting dust. It would be far more sustainable to find them a new home – all it takes is a little thought.
- Gather together any unwanted clothes, books, or household items you no longer need and let your social circles know you’re interested in some swaps.
- Use your accommodation noticeboard to advertise a monthly ‘swap or donate’ event, and build a new community by encouraging others to take part.
- Join local freecycling groups on social media.
4. Spread positive vibes
Student life can feel a little stressy and overwhelming at times – especially around exam periods. Taking the time for small acts of kindness can have really big impact, and these zero finance acts are often the most meaningful way to give back.
- Check in on your friends if they show any signs of stress or unhappiness. Just asking how someone is feeling can be incredibly powerful.
- Show appreciation to those who show up for you – think tutors, cleaners, admin staff and more. Anyone who goes an extra mile deserves to be thanked for their efforts.
- Be prepared to listen. If someone opens up to you, they don’t always want answers. The emotional support means more than anything money could buy.
- Share positivity online, and spread joy and love across your socials!
5. Support your favourite causes
Even if you’re short on budget, raising awareness is completely free of charge and takes no time at all. This is a great opportunity to support causes you feel passionate about – and know that you are giving back in ways that impact the bigger picture.
- Join advocacy or sustainability clubs.
- Share reliable information online about issues you support.
- Participate in awareness campaigns and attend events where possible.
Giving back isn’t about how much you have, it’s about what you do with what you’ve got. Every act of emotional generosity, big or small, goes some way to making the world a better place.
