Written by Ana Elefterescu
We live in a world that teaches us to chase. Chase success. Chase the perfect resume. Chase the next big opportunity. We’re told that if we work hard enough, achieve enough, build enough credibility, we’ll finally arrive. But what happens when you get there and still feel empty?
As university students, we are in constant pursuit of knowledge, of experience, of that one internship or leadership role that will set us apart. We want to grow, gain skills, and build resumes that will open doors.
I’m 25 and haven’t even finished dental school yet, so realistically I can’t afford to base my identity off achievements. My resume is full of part time jobs and half finished degrees. But I know that through service to my community, and by giving my time to worthy causes, I have become valuable. I feel a sense of unmatched fulfilment knowing I am part of something bigger than myself.
My hope is that the most valuable thing we walk away with from these years is more than just a degree, but a deeper understanding of who we are and the impact we leave on others.
The Resume We’re Told to Build
Leadership and volunteering teach us to problem-solve, communicate, manage time, and lead under pressure. They shape how we present ourselves to future employers and these skills and experiences give you lots to talk about in interviews. But the trick is that you really have to immerse yourself in the role to gain these perks.
Leadership helps you develop:
- Decision making & conflict resolution
- Strategic thinking & initiative
- Event planning & crisis management
- Public speaking & teamwork
Volunteering builds:
- Cultural sensitivity & emotional intelligence
- Adaptability & resilience
- Hands on teamwork in real world settings
- Communication with diverse groups
So while these look great on a CV, if that’s your only reason for doing them, you’re missing the point and employers will be able to tell your heart wasn’t in it.
The Resume That Actually Matters
The point I’m trying to make is that if your worth is tied to achievements, you’ll never feel like enough. There will always be someone with more experience, better credentials, and more polished answers. Build your identity through the impact you have on others and your cup will always be full.
Leadership isn’t just about influence—it’s about reliability. It’s being the person someone turns to when they need support, stepping in when no one else will, and creating a space where others feel valued.
Volunteering isn’t just about giving time—it’s about perspective. It’s about listening to someone’s story, stepping into a world beyond your own ambitions, and realising that success isn’t just what you accomplish, but the impact you leave behind.
How to Hold Both
It’s not wrong to want to grow. It’s not wrong to want a strong resume. But just make sure you don’t settle for the titles, or you’ll always be chasing something that never truly fulfills you.
As a Resident Leader, I see how small things like late-night conversations, quiet support, and being there when someone needs reassurance make the stressful lives of the students I live with a little bit easier.
As Publications Officer for Australian Dental Students Association, I see the power of storytelling. Through the Brace Yourself Podcast and First Year Handbook, I give students a space to feel heard. Sometimes, the greatest impact comes from letting people know they aren’t alone.
Volunteering with foundations like Tzu Chi and Carey Right Track showed me that service allows you to gain new and important perspectives. Packing relief supplies, assisting in pro bono days at dental clinics and working with Indigenous youth taught me the value of coming together as a community.
Yes, these roles strengthened my leadership, public speaking, crisis management, and teamwork. But more than that, they reshaped my perspective. Success is who you become, and the bonus is what you achieve.
So take on leadership. Volunteer. Build experience, refine your skills, and challenge yourself. Do it because these moments will stretch you, change you, and teach you what truly matters.
Because in the end, the resume that counts isn’t the one on paper. It’s the impact you leave behind.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
