Why Service Matters More Than You Think
When we talk about career growth, it’s easy to focus only on things like networking, degrees, and job titles. But I believe there’s something just as important that often gets overlooked: giving back to your community. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply being present for a cause you care about, serving others isn’t just about doing good—it’s about becoming a better version of yourself, both personally and professionally.
As a young professional navigating the fast-paced world of finance, I’ve learned that volunteering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity or working with local food banks has taught me lessons I couldn’t get from any textbook. These experiences have shaped how I communicate, how I lead, and how I make decisions. And honestly, they’ve made me a more grounded and grateful person.
Building Character Through Service
We hear the word “character” tossed around all the time—especially in sports, where I’ve spent so much of my life. Coaches talk about it, employers want it, and people respect it. But how do you actually build it? I think service plays a huge role.
When you step into a volunteer role, you quickly realize it’s not about you. You’re part of something bigger. Whether you’re hammering nails with Habitat or sorting canned goods at a food drive, you learn humility, patience, and responsibility. These traits carry over into the workplace. When things get tough on the job, I often think back to times I was on a service trip, sweating under the sun, working side by side with people from all walks of life. Those moments built grit and perspective.
Networking Beyond the Office
People usually think of networking as wearing a suit at a happy hour event or adding someone on LinkedIn. But volunteering creates a totally different—and often more meaningful—kind of connection. You meet people with shared values, and those relationships can be just as helpful to your career as anything that happens in the boardroom.
I’ve made great connections through service projects that later turned into job referrals, mentorships, and even friendships. When people see you show up and work hard without expecting anything in return, it speaks volumes about your character. That kind of impression sticks—and sometimes opens doors in surprising ways.
Leadership Lessons From the Ground Up
Volunteering has also helped me grow as a leader. It’s one thing to lead when you have a title, but another when you’re working with a team of volunteers, often in unfamiliar environments, where the only thing guiding you is purpose.
I’ve had the chance to lead small groups on build sites and coordinate logistics for local events. These experiences taught me how to organize people, communicate clearly, and stay calm under pressure. All of these skills directly translate to the workplace. Whether I’m managing a project or helping a client at Morgan Stanley, the leadership lessons I learned through service come into play every day.
It Keeps You Grounded
Let’s be real: the early stages of a career can feel like a race. You’re trying to stand out, make money, and prove yourself. That kind of pressure can be intense. For me, volunteering is a way to hit pause and get some perspective.
Giving your time reminds you that not everyone has the same opportunities. It helps you appreciate what you have and stay focused on what really matters. I’ve found that when I take time to give back, I return to work more energized and less stressed. It’s like a mental reset that keeps me balanced.
Time Isn’t the Issue—It’s the Mindset
A lot of young professionals say they don’t have time to volunteer, and trust me, I get it. Between long hours and trying to build your career, it can be tough to commit. But service doesn’t have to be a huge time investment. Even a couple of hours a month can make a difference—for others and for you.
The key is shifting your mindset. Don’t think of service as something separate from your life or career. Think of it as a key part of your personal development. Just like going to the gym or taking a class, it’s something that adds value to who you are.
Making It Part of Your Game Plan
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re serious about becoming a well-rounded professional, giving back should be part of your game plan. It helps you grow, connects you with people, strengthens your leadership, and keeps you grounded. You don’t need to wait until you “make it” to start giving back. You can start now, wherever you are.
Spencer Short, a proud graduate of Texas A&M and a passionate volunteer, believes that success isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about lifting others as you rise. Whether you’re swinging a hammer, serving a meal, or simply showing up, service has the power to shape your life in ways you never expected.
So find a cause that matters to you. Make time for it. And watch how it transforms not only your community—but also your career and your character.