Opening Doors for the Next Generation

How did your time at Derby help open doors for you? 

Think back to your time at the University of Derby and the people you feel grateful to have met along the way; the friends, academics, role models and mentors who believed in you and helped to shape the person you are today.  

Going to university is about so much more than gaining a degree – it’s about saying ‘YES’ to new opportunities that can open doors to an exciting future.

What if you could be the one to open those doors for someone else?

Volunteering at the University of Derby means that you can become someone’s cheerleader and provide valuable support and guidance like you once received.  

Volunteering can come in many forms, whether that be sharing your stories and experiences with a current student to inspire their journey or helping a recent graduate to find their feet in the world of work. However you choose to get involved, you’ll be positively impacting the lives of the next generation.

How you can make a difference 

There are plenty of ways that you can volunteer, depending on how much time and energy you are currently able to commit. 

Share your story

From the challenges you overcame as a student to the milestones you’ve achieved in your career, sharing details of your own journey has the power to help someone else see their potential, as well as to connect the dots between their studies and the world beyond campus. 

You can choose to provide a written testimonial, feature in one of our University videos or of course you’re always welcome back on campus to deliver a masterclass, a workshop, a guest lecture or an informal talk – whatever you feel most comfortable with. 

Provide work experience or placement opportunities 

Are you in a position to offer volunteering opportunities, a short-term placement or even employment? Or would you like to attend one of our Careers events to meet with our talented students, create connections and transform your workforce? Giving a young person experience in the workplace is not only crucial to their development, but it helps them to find their direction in life or sense of purpose.

Supporting Open Days and graduations 

Remember how you felt attending an Open Day? It was a whirlwind of emotions - overwhelming, exciting and maybe a little scary! We’d love your help, whether it’s giving a talk, leading a tour or just being there for those who need a bit of guidance.   

Who can forget graduation? What a fantastic feeling to know all your hard work has paid off! Your support can make a huge difference during our graduation events by welcoming graduates to the alumni community and being part of their lifelong memories.  

Support a student or recent graduate 

By supporting a young person, you can help to build their confidence, share insights about your personal and professional experiences and show them what’s possible. Whether you’re able to offer a small piece of advice or an ongoing conversation, your guidance could be the turning point in their journey. 

What’s in it for you?

A very good question! Those who volunteer at the University of Derby say it’s a hugely rewarding experience, but that’s not all. 

Learn new skills: From public speaking to mentoring; volunteering challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and grow in ways you might not expect. 

Enhance your employability: Giving back shows leadership, compassion and commitment – qualities that stand out on any CV or LinkedIn profile.

Build your network:  Connect with like-minded alumni, current students and university staff who share your love of Derby. Expanding your circle can always help to open doors for your own future, too. 

Meet new people: Volunteering is a chance to form meaningful connections with people who share your love for Derby and your passion for making a difference. 

Give back to the next generation: Imagine how you’ll feel in years to come when someone names you as being a person they feel grateful to have met – pretty incredible! This is a chance to say ‘YES’ to a new opportunity and make a positive impact.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss volunteering opportunities with us, please contact the Alumni Team: alumni@derby.ac.uk