You will come across the saying that “students should take the opportunity to get involved while studying in university”, but what exactly does it mean to get involved?

While your education will be your first priority while at university, there is some much to gain from being involved in opportunities outside the classroom. Probably the easiest way to do this is through obtaining membership to a local student club/society, which provides both social and professional networking opportunities and development activities. There are also a variety of programs that can enhance a student’s education and learning opportunities while at university, including: on-campus living, faculty research, university games and on-campus employment.

Here’s a fact: Students who participate in collaborative learning and educational activities outside the classroom are more satisfied with their education and are more likely to remain in university.
(National Survey of Student Engagement, 2006)

SPA supports any attempt that students make to engage with key stakeholders. Not only is this important to the individuals self-development, we believe that the success of our student organisation lies in the enthusiastic and gift-minds of the students who run it! Beyond obtaining your student club membership, we encourage you to GET INVOLVED!

Getting involved in a student organisation is a great opportunity to develop team work, leadership, interpersonal and communication skills – attributes which are cornerstone of a great Paramedic. The personal and professional opportunities are endless, and not limited to some of the following:

• Appreciation of campus diversity and collaborative education;


• Getting involved in business practices including managing budgets, working within a team of executives, and utilising interpersonal and conflict mediation skills;


• Building upon networking and social skills;


• Engage with students of other disciplines, industry personnel and academic staff;


• Being a member of a team – building your own accountability, and responsibility for your roles and portfolios;


• Opportunities to engage closer in the Paramedic profession by interacting with industry personnel;


• Develop leadership and maturity through the development of student-led projects/initiatives, and;


• Increase your own professional profile by showing your commitment to community engagement and professional development.

There are 2 ways you can get involved in Paramedic specific student organisations:

1. Local: Getting involved with your University Paramedic Society or Club.
2. National: Getting involved with Student Paramedics Australasia, and become a lead opportunities for paramedic students across Australia!

To learn more, choose the team that you want to be part of above!

Tips to help guide your involvement

From time to time, students may be tempted to get involved because they feel that everyone else is doing it or because it may enhance their employment opportunities. While it is always fun to get involved with friends, volunteering requires both work and commitment, so it’s important to be enthusiastic and positive about your involvement. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:

• Make sure you are interested in the group you get involved with. Students who are passionate and enthusiastic about their involvement are generally rewarded with more benefits.


• Volunteering can be hard work. Make sure you weigh up your involvement against educational, social and employment priorities. Don’t take on too much work!


• Don’t be afraid to give it a go. Most student organisations (including SPA) are made up of student representatives who have little educational and employment backgrounds. Nevertheless, don’t underestimate your value. Students offer enthusiasm, creativity and dedication; they are open to learning new things and experiencing new challenges. This is what being involved is all about!


• Look after your wellbeing first – a healthy mind is the key to a valuable and lasting education. Taking on too much work will put extra stress on your personal life.


• Most universities have a clubs and societies department which provide a range of information about getting involved.


• Team work is the forefront of volunteering in a student organisation – your success relies on your interaction with you team, its members, and the community.

So what are you waiting for?