Telethon Caller: James
First-year Law student James had a few reasons why he decided to apply to work as a Student Caller in this year’s Telethon.
“I wished to give back to the university as I have really enjoyed my time here. I also wanted to improve my communication skills, especially for phone calls, and felt that the Telethon would provide me a great opportunity to practise and improve. Finally, I wanted to speak to alumni who are in the law field and discover the pathways they took and the steps they made to get where they are today,” says James.
In particular, it’s been speaking with those alumni who have made their careers in law that James has really found helpful in finding direction when thinking about his own career ahead.
“It gives me the opportunity to hear about their stories and careers. I am able to get an understanding of how they reached where they are at now and that helps me decide on my future in the legal field,” he says.
Through the Telethon, James has chatted with alumni about the many opportunities they have to give back and the projects they can support. Philanthropy is something James feels is important to talk about, and he says alumni have been only too happy to help.
“Most often they enjoyed their time at the University and feel that they were given so much. I believe alumni give because they are genuinely interested in making a difference.
“Projects that are supported by the Telethon are incredibly important because they make the world a better place,” adds James. “They provide reassurance to students that if they face a financial emergency, they can apply to seek immediate financial assistance from the University. Without any support from generous alumni, this initiative could not be active.”