Anchita’s Story
Anchita, a 17 year old based in India, is a Copy-Editor as part of the Youth STEM Matters Volunteer Team.
In her own words, this is her story.
6 months ago, I had decided to apply to join the Youth STEM Matters team three hours before the deadline. It was a last-minute decision, of course, and this opportunity was about to become one of the many other bookmarked websites that I was going to ignore.
But something in me told me not to do that here. And so, I put aside my procrastination skills, and typed out my answers, essentially submitting my application just a few minutes before the forms closed.
Today, as I celebrate International Volunteer Day with the rest of the incredibly diverse team and look back at how much I have grown, I do not regret my decision. Although I had initially applied for the position of a Reviewer, I got selected as a Copy-Editor instead, which was a much better fit for me.
“Today, as I celebrate International Volunteer Day with the rest of the incredibly diverse team and look back at how much I have grown, I do not regret my decision [to apply].”
In the short span of 6 months, my editing skills drastically improved, and I have been able to enhance articles and convey the message to the audience without losing the author’s voice. Additionally, I’ve also had the opportunity to learn more about various new concepts on an everyday basis – such as the research being conducted to develop the COVID-19 vaccine, and green economics, a concept I am extremely passionate about. I’ve also learned about the importance of references and citations and am comfortable with using it. Outside of Youth STEM Matters, I have been able to use these improved skill sets in various other organizations such as MindChamps and The Lightbulb Project.
“The organization has instilled a lot more confidence in myself than when I had first joined the team.”
Despite my role being as a Copy-Editor, being a part of Youth STEM Matters has helped improve my writing skills tremendously as well. Recently, I worked with the Copy-Editing Team to write about renewable energy sources that help power the world (stay tuned for that!). The organization has instilled a lot more confidence in myself than when I had first joined the team.
Quite a few people I know have asked me for some tips for applying to the team. So, here are a few suggestions that helped me make my application impactful:
Firstly, it is important to show passion for the cause – Youth STEM 2030 focuses on bringing recognition to the STEM work conducted by young people for the 17 SDGs. This is important, as your passion is what drives you the most when you are volunteering, therefore, you should show us how your values match ours.
Secondly, talk about your skills and experience, and about how you’ve executed or handled each opportunity presented to you. This would show us how committed you are, and how well you can handle situations.
Thirdly, ensure that you interlink your experiences with why we should select you. This, in my opinion, would be the best way of showing us why you are the best fit for this role.
Lastly, be yourself! Youth STEM 2030 looks for people who are honest about themselves, and we want to know who you are and what you’re working for. It’s okay if you don’t have prior experience in the role you are applying for. Everyone has to start from somewhere, and you can start from here with us! This also helps us bring together lots of different skillsets within the team.
And, you’re all set now!
Happy International Volunteer Day to everyone around the world! We, as a community of youth, are the reason why the world still hasn’t given up hope. Here’s to many more years of doing good!