Tori Bloomfield
Volunteering experience impressive to employers
University of Waikato Bachelor of Science graduate Tori Blomfield took up Volunteering as a hobby in 2013, wanting to make a difference in other people’s lives. Little did she know, her Volunteering experience would later score her a trip to America, a new group of life-long friends, plus a job as an Engineering Geologist at HD Geotechnical.
Tori became involved with Volunteering in her final year at St. Paul’s Collegiate School. As part of her responsibilities as a house leader, Tori Volunteered with the Burn Support Group’s fundraising initiatives and children’s camps.
“Volunteering for the Burn Support Group has been the most rewarding experience I have ever had,” says Tori. “I deal with young children who inspire me and make everything so fun. Being part of their journeys and watching them evolve is incredible.”
A highlight of Tori’s Volunteering experience was attending the International World Burn Survivor Conference in Indianapolis in 2015. With one thousand burn survivors attending the conference, Tori enjoyed talking to people from all around the world about their journeys.
“It was an honour to attend the conference in America, and it’s just another example of the benefits Volunteering can give you. My Volunteering experience has taught me how to interact with people from all walks of life.”
Tori’s people skills and Volunteering background set her apart from other applicants and landed her a job at HD Geotechnical, an engineering consultancy firm in Hamilton.
“When I applied for the job, I was able to talk about my Volunteering experience in my interview, and it really impressed my employers. I deal with a huge spectrum of different people at work, so it’s been incredibly helpful to have that experience.”
Tori’s passion for Volunteering has grown, and her long list of work experience includes the Golden Key Honours Society, Arthritis New Zealand, the Cancer Society, and the English Learners Corner.
“The best part of Volunteering is when a stranger comes up to you and tells you what they’re going through and how your work has impacted their life. My advice to other students is to give Volunteering a go – you definitely won’t regret it.”
The University of Waikato’s Employability Plus Programme provides Volunteering opportunities for University of Waikato students, with over 60 partnerships with non-profit organisations in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
