The Volunteer’s Guide 2: What makes volunteering unique 2
Difference between volunteering and internship:
Volunteering and interning are both forms of experiential engagement, but they serve different purposes, involve varying degrees of commitment, and often come with distinct expectations. Here are the key differences between volunteering and interning:
- Purpose:
- Volunteering: Volunteering is primarily driven by a desire to contribute to a cause, organization, or community without expecting financial compensation. The primary motivation is usually altruism or a personal connection to the mission or activities of the organization.
- Internship: Internships are typically designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical work experience related to their field of study or career goals. Interns often expect to gain skills, knowledge, and exposure to a specific industry or profession.
- Compensation:
- Volunteering: Volunteers do not receive monetary compensation for their services. They offer their time and skills willingly and without financial expectations.
- Internship: Interns may receive compensation in the form of a stipend, hourly wage, or salary, although many internships are unpaid. Unpaid internships are subject to labor laws and regulations in many jurisdictions.
3.Learning Objectives:
o Volunteering: While volunteers may gain valuable experiences and skills, the primary focus is on contributing to the organization or cause. Learning objectives are often secondary to the goal of making a positive impact.
o Internship: Internships are structured to provide learning experiences and professional development. The organization hosting the intern typically sets specific learning objectives and provides opportunities for skill development.
4.Duration:
o Volunteering: The duration of volunteer commitments can vary widely, from one-time events or short-term projects to long-term, ongoing involvement. Volunteers often have flexibility in their time commitment.
o Internship: Internships are typically structured and have a predetermined start and end date. They are often categorized as summer internships, semester-long internships, or co-op programs.
5.Expectations:
o Volunteering: The expectations for volunteers may be less formal and vary depending on the organization. Volunteers may have more flexibility in terms of their roles and responsibilities.
o Internship: Internships come with specific expectations outlined in an internship agreement or contract. Interns are typically expected to complete assigned tasks, meet learning objectives, and adhere to workplace policies.
6.Supervision and Mentorship:
o Volunteering: While volunteers may receive guidance and support, the level of supervision and mentorship can vary. It may be less structured than in an internship.
o Internship: Interns typically have designated supervisors or mentors who provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the internship. Mentorship is often a key component of the learning experience.
- Credential and Academic Credit:
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- Volunteering: Volunteering does not typically lead to academic credit or formal credentials, although it can be a valuable addition to a resume or college application.
- Internship: Some internships are offered for academic credit as part of an educational program. These internships are designed to align with specific learning objectives and may require academic assignments or reflection.
- Legal Considerations:
- Volunteering: Volunteers may not be subject to the same legal regulations and labor laws as interns or employees, as they are not compensated for their services.
- Internship: Internships, especially those that are paid, are subject to labor laws and regulations in many jurisdictions, which may include minimum wage requirements and workplace protections.
In summary,
volunteering is primarily driven by the desire to contribute to a cause, while internships are focused on providing students or recent graduates with practical work experience related to their field of study or career goals. These differences in purpose, compensation, duration, expectations, and legal considerations make volunteering and interning distinct forms of experiential engagement.
