Student Volunteer Opportunities
Student volunteers are an important part of the VA medical centers' treatment team. VAVS defines student volunteers as those under the age of 21. They will receive valuable experience and training which will benefit them in applying for college and jobs. The James H. Parke Memorial Youth Scholarship Award provides scholarships to students who volunteer at VA medical centers (your local VA health care Voluntary Service staff has current nomination criteria). Student volunteers are liaisons with their communities and provide a valuable element of caring for veterans.
The VA Voluntary Service program offers students excellent opportunities for:
There are many opportunities to explore in the Student Volunteer Program. Here are just a few of the services and specialties available to student volunteers:
| Audiology and Speech Pathology | Outpatient/Ambulatory Care Activities |
| Extended Care | Occupational Therapy |
| Laboratory Medicine | Patient Escort |
| Medical Administration | Pharmacy |
| Medical Illustration | Physical Therapy |
| Nursing | Research |
| Nutrition and Food Service | Social Work |
A wide variety of assignments is available. Volunteers are selected according to the needs of the medical center, assignment preference and skills. Training is provided by Voluntary Service at each medical facility and the supervisor of the department to which volunteers are assigned. Orientation will be conducted to acquaint you with services available at the medical center where you serve.
How do I become a VA student volunteer?
You have two convenient ways:
1) Contact the Department of Veterans Affairs facility nearest you. Ask for Voluntary Service. Tell their staff of your interest in becoming a VAVS Volunteer. The staff will take care of everything else including your interview, orientation, and assignment! To find out which facility is nearest you, click here.
2) Click here or on the Volunteer NOW! button, fill out the form and click submit. Your information will be sent to the VA Voluntary Service office nearest you. Someone from that office will then contact you to set up the initial interview.