Program Overview

Introduction to the UTS SOUL Award Program

The UTS SOUL Award program is a university-wide initiative that recognizes students' volunteer work and community engagement. The program is open to all UTS students, from first-year undergraduates to PhD candidates.

Program Details

• The program is free for all UTS students.
• Students can volunteer at any time that suits them, but they must complete their workshops and log their volunteering hours by the designated deadlines (30 May, 30 October, or 15 February) of their final session of study at UTS.
• The program has two components: the SOUL Badge and the SOUL Award.
• The SOUL Badge requires students to complete 35 hours of volunteering and two interactive workshops.
• The SOUL Award requires students to complete 90 hours of volunteering and two interactive workshops, in addition to the SOUL Badge requirements.

Eligibility and Requirements

• The program is open to all UTS students, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD candidates.
• Students can volunteer with any not-for-profit organization or event that creates a positive social impact.
• Internal volunteering within the UTS community is also recognized, but it must create a positive social impact in the student community.
• Students can log their volunteering hours online and must provide evidence of their volunteering work.

Benefits and Outcomes

• Students who complete the SOUL Badge will receive a certificate of completion, a LinkedIn recommendation, and experience that can be included on their CV.
• Students who complete the SOUL Award will receive a certificate of completion, a letter or LinkedIn recommendation that details their volunteering and skills achievements, and the UTS SOUL Award will be listed on their Graduate Statement.
• The program provides students with opportunities to develop their skills, gain experience, and make a positive impact in their community.

Volunteering Opportunities

• Students can find volunteering opportunities through the UTS SOUL program, including online databases, micro-volunteering, and volunteering to develop their disciplinary skills.
• Students can also volunteer with organizations that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• The UTS SOUL program regularly posts volunteering opportunities from community partners on their Facebook page.

Workshops and Support

• The program offers interactive workshops that provide students with skills and knowledge to enhance their volunteering experience.
• Students can access support and guidance from the UTS SOUL team throughout the program.
• The program also provides resources and information to help students find volunteering opportunities and log their hours.

Recognition and Celebration

• The UTS SOUL Award program recognizes and celebrates students' volunteer work and community engagement.
• Students who complete the program will be acknowledged at graduation and will receive a certificate of completion.
• The program also provides students with opportunities to showcase their skills and experience to potential employers.