Volunteer work. If you’re a high school student, or the parent of a high school student, you already know the importance of consistent, relevant volunteer work when it comes to the college application process. But beyond the “necessity” of volunteering in order to present yourself as a well rounded individual to the colleges to which you are applying, volunteer work is an important enrichment tool for both teenagers and their families.

While many students volunteer in areas they are already interested in, students who are unsure about what they might want to study when in college can have interests sparked through their volunteer work.

Volunteer work is a good way for families to spend additional time with one another. With the demands on everyone’s time at an all-time high, finding a volunteer activity can not only provide families with a way to give back to their community, but allow them to spend some time bonding over a shared interest.

Most importantly, however, is the feeling of enrichment that comes with giving back to a worthwhile cause. There are no “right” ways to volunteer your time. Each individual will have causes or agencies to which s/he will want to assist. The sense of community and pride that come along with providing that assistance is invaluable to not only your student’s college application process, but his or her self-esteem as well.