I volunteer with South Tees NHS trust – James Cook University Hospital.  I chose to volunteer with James Cook University Hospital following a presentation they gave at Teesside University. The hospital has a significant volunteer programme allowing you to work in all but two areas of the hospital. I received full training and support as I settled into my new role.In summary, my role within the laboratory involves the safe and accurate booking in of patient samples, sorting them for the relevant testing, filing and safe disposal as required. Each day I develop existing skills whilst learning new ones.Volunteering provides the opportunity to expand and develop a whole range of skills. My key skills I have developed have been communication, collaboration, scheduling, data management and active listening. This is just a selection of the skills developed through my role.Being a volunteer brings with it an immense sense of pride for the fantastic work our NHS does and with it comes the gratitude and recognition of your own contribution. In addition, you can gain invaluable experience and skills relevant to your current or future career path.The therapeutic care team are fantastic at providing you with all the information and support you would need to decide if volunteering is right for you. You can tailor your role to an area of interest, I chose to gain valuable experience in a laboratory.I will complete my degree summer of next year. After this, I am considering a PhD but may look to go straight into the biosciences industry. My volunteering will provide me with a reference and relevant experience when applying for a new position. I am hopeful that I will achieve the Plus Award which would make an amazing contribution to my CV for prospective employers.As a mature student I have opted not to extend my graduation by taking part in a placement year. Alternatively, I decided to invest my spare time in a volunteer role which is flexible around my current commitments.I have developed a range of skills during my time as a volunteer. In order to accurately and safely book in patient samples it was necessary to learn to use new software and programmes. I adhere to all health and safety protocols building on previously skills learnt and I have applied my interpersonal skills to form new relationships within the team.I have recommended the Volun-tees scheme to all of my fellow students. The programme can be advantageous for younger students who have not yet had the opportunity to gain relevant work experience or commercial awareness. It is also beneficial to students of all ages and at all stages of education to obtain relevant experience and expand on existing knowledge and experience.