Eloura Mishra, '08 BEd

Tell us how you stay connected to campus through volunteerism.
I enjoy staying connected to campus through volunteerism in many ways. I am fortunate to have the opportunities to support wonderful events which take place right on campus and even off campus with the university such as the Easter Egg Hunt, U of A Open House, The Big Tuck Stop Event, the Food Bank drive, just to name a few. Seeing the smile on faces, having meaningful and one-on-one conversations with others has been the best part of volunteering. Staying connected and giving back to the community has been absolutely wonderful. However, more than that, it has become inspiring. Being a part of the Alumni Association has provided me with much of this.

Why do you think it's important for grads to volunteer their time?
I believe it's important to volunteer for numerous reasons. One of them being that I want to give back to the community, just as the community has given so much to me. Contributing to community development and collective good cultivates community spirit and growth. It also enriches our cultural mosaic, learning from one each other. Volunteering ultimately demonstrates a true human touch, working hand in hand for the collective good of all.

Do you volunteer for other organizations? If so, where?
I volunteer at the University of Alberta, Edmonton Bengali Association, dance performance throughout various locations in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, and the United States.

What does volunteering mean to you?
Volunteering to me is something very personal. It enhances personal growth and development. It teaches a sense of selflessness, belonging. In addition, it also teaches the value such as kindness and compassion.

What impact has volunteering had on you? On others?
Volunteering has had a wonderful impact on me. It makes me feel happy and fulfilled. It allows me to be a useful and contributing member of the community and society as a whole.

What advice would you give to people looking to volunteer?
Always volunteer from your heart with love and compassion.

Share a story or a memory from your time volunteering.
One of my fondest memories of volunteering was the very first time I volunteered at the Alumni weekend during the Tuck Shop Tent. I was selling cinnamon buns when I had elders coming up to me one after another not just excited to have a cinnamon buns, but to share their memories of when they used to attend the University and the experiences they had with friends and the whole campus experience.The warmth and glow on their smiles and the true joy of having others listening to them was priceless. By listening to elders share their stories with me, it opened up a new perspective on life, living, enjoyment and volunteering.