Taylor Dewar

Please could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about how you came to hear about Studenteer?

Hi! My name is Taylor, I recently graduated with a degree in Graphic Design from the University of Dundee. I initially heard about Furlonteer on The High Low podcast, I went online and discovered that there was a student version so I signed up! I got a phone call asking if I wanted to help with the development of Studenteer, so of course I said yes!

What made you want to want to sign up as a Studenteer?

I did a lot of volunteering work during my studies and was hoping to continue with it after graduating until COVID-19 struck. It was really difficult to get any voluntary work. I was looking for more experience and something to fill my time, when I came across Studenteer. They are created for students by students, so I knew that they had my best interests in mind.

Could you tell us a little about the project you’ve been matched with and your role in helping them?

On top of being the graphic designer for Studenteer, I also help out at FurLearn which is the largest Linkedin community offering advice, webinars and networking opportunities for furloughed or unemployed talent. Currently I’m creating a website for them to showcase the inspiring speakers they’ve had over the past few months.

What new skills has this experience given you?

Confidence! It’s been so uplifting being a recent graduate and gaining a wealth of knowledge from a variety of different people and industries. I’ve had meetings with people I would never have been in contact with, FurLearn has built a strong network of hardworking individuals that only want to see people succeed.

What impact do you feel it’s had on your experience of being a student or graduate during COVID-19, and are you likely to continue volunteering after it ends?

I didn’t get to graduate, my degree show got postponed and the job market is a really difficult place for everyone right now. It’s been hard and sometimes lonely, but having a reason to get up in the morning, be it a meeting or just to check in, has been vital to me. Feeling useful and getting to be part of that community again has really helped me. I get to use my skills to support other people and in this situation, where it feels like everything is going wrong, I feel like I’m doing something right by helping other people.

Could you give any advice or tips to other people considering signing up to Studenteer?

Just do it! It’s an amazing way to learn in a setting that helps the wider community. Experience is the key to finding out what makes you happy so if you want to try out something a bit different then this is your opportunity!

Would you recommend Studenteer to a friend who is a Student or Graduate?

100% and I actually have! I knew quite a few Dundee students which are currently helping out and I can’t wait to see more join Studenteer!

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