Student Essay – By Benjamin Li
Volunteering is a powerful act of selflessness that has the potential to not only impact the lives of those being helped but also to profoundly change the perspective and values of the volunteer. Over the past year, I had the privilege of participating in several new unique volunteering experiences that left an indelible mark on myself. These experiences included registering and supervising exhibitors at the Creative Industries Expo during South by Southwest, teaching kids around the country the building blocks of 3D design, and taking part in other local projects. Each experience was rich in lessons about empathy, inclusivity, and creativity, ultimately revealing the potential for positive change when dedicating myself to serving others.
Stepping into the electric chaos that was South by Southwest (SXSW) was like falling into a kaleidoscope of possibilities. The Austin Convention Center, where the Creative Industries Expo stood, bustled with busy, sleep-deprived exhibitors from around the globe prepared to demonstrate their revolutionary products/services or act as ambassadors for the branches of technology that their countries so proudly boasted of in large booths. I held many conversations with these bright minds as I volunteered there, checking them in and simultaneously helping navigate spectators inside. Although the days were long, the reward of camaraderie, creative insight, and new connections I received from volunteering at SXSW proved my experience fruitful.
The past year has been incredibly busy for me. Obviously, I have taken part in other projects under other organizations. Under The STEAM Foundation, I have taught the basics of 3D design to kids across the country online, getting to show off some skills I have gained from a hobby I used to hold in great importance years back. I gladly used other assets I had, such as painting, in hospital murals decorated with bright icons and flashy animals for children patients. One thing about volunteering with and for children is the reward of excitement, anticipation to learn, and big smiles of accomplishment I receive.
Volunteering really shines in a world where a little kindness goes a long way. I am thankful to act as the helpful instructor, assistant, and friend of many people this year especially. And I would do it all over again, whether it be assisting someone academically, creating heart-warming murals, and/or embracing diversity at every opportunity. Continuing to pursue these acts has taught me more than I could imagine.
