Volunteer Spotlight – Mario Paredes ’11

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1.Why do you volunteer for Lehigh? 
I volunteer for Lehigh because it is my personal way of investing in an institution that invested so much into me. Volunteering allows be to stay plugged into life at Lehigh and more importantly it allows me to connect with prospective students, current students, alumni, staff and faculty. As a young alumnus I may not be able to contribute much financially to future generations at Lehigh, but I can donate my time and energy towards promoting a great education. I also want to make sure I have an active voice in the future of Lehigh so that it can continue to improve as an institute of higher education for students of all backgrounds.

 

2. What do you find rewarding about the experience?
Being able to volunteer for Lehigh has been extremely rewarding because even to this day I am able to step foot at Lehigh and connect with the campus community. I am always meeting young students who I can help mentor and reconnecting with old friends. I can honestly say that even as an alumnus I have been able to continue growing my network of professionals, peers and friends because of my engagement as an alumnus. I never hesitate in reaching out to members of the Lehigh community whether it is to receive advice, ask for a recommendation, or offer my help.

 

3. What would you say to a potential Lehigh volunteer?
Volunteering is about much more than just donating your time. By giving back to others at Lehigh you will receive much more in return. You can derive just as much value from Lehigh as a student, than you can as an alumnus, so I urge you all to continue your investment.

 

4. Do you have a favorite memory or moment from your volunteer experience with Lehigh that stands out?
My favorite moment as a volunteer with Lehigh has been helping to host the first Black and Latino Alumni Banquet for BALANCE in New York city during the 150th Lehigh vs. Lafayette Rivalry weekend. Seeing hundreds of alumni, students, staff, faculty and even the President of Lehigh in attendance was very unforgettable. I hope it can one day be looked back at as a turning point for engaging more alumni from diverse backgrounds at Lehigh.

 

5. Anything else you’d like to share about volunteering with Lehigh?
There are plenty of ways that we can all volunteer with Lehigh. No matter when you graduated, where you live or what your background is, Lehigh needs you. As with any organization, the more voices that are heard, the more that Lehigh evolves to become the best institution possible.

 

Learn more about Lehigh volunteer opportunities at mylehigh.lehigh.edu/volunteer.

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