A recent study conducted by The University of Texas at Austin highlights the economic and developmental impact of student volunteerism and participation in student organizations. The research was a collaboration between the Division of Student Affairs and the Bureau of Business Research at the IC² Institute.
According to the study, students collectively contribute about 5.2 million hours annually to volunteering in the local community, which translates to an estimated $102 million in economic value each year. The data shows that 64% of students have volunteered during their time at UT, with each individual averaging 160 hours per year. Additionally, 77% of students reported participating in university student organizations.
Of those involved in student organizations, 96% stated that their participation had a positive effect on their overall student experience, while 93% said it helped prepare them for life after graduation.
John Dalton, vice president for student affairs, commented on these findings: “Our students are an economic driving force. Volunteering, being a member of a student organization, playing on an intramural team — these transformative experiences help produce citizens to lead the next generation.”
The report also examined how involvement in student organizations contributes to skill development sought by employers. Students indicated improvements in several areas: teamwork (91%), communication (90%), leadership (87%), career and self-development (85%), professionalism (84%), critical thinking (80%), and technology skills (58%).
Hudson Thomas, Student Government president and Plan II Honors senior from Dallas, said: “For most students, the ultimate goal is a rewarding job or admission to a prestigious graduate program. What sets us apart is our one-of-a-kind Longhorn experience with vibrant opportunities. This study proves that volunteering and participating in student organizations benefits our community and equips us with the skills to change the world.”
The Bureau of Business Research has been conducting nonpartisan analysis of social and economic trends for nearly a century. For this project, researchers used a mixed-method approach.
Matt Kammer-Kerwick, director of the Bureau of Business Research, noted: “This project was exciting because, although we instinctively understood the contribution of UT Austin students to the local community, we weren’t aware that their impact had ever been measured. The findings demonstrate that their contributions extend beyond Austin; the students are developing lifelong skills they will use living and working all over the world.”
Further details can be found in both the full Bureau of Business Research report and the 2024-2025 Division of Student Affairs Annual Impact Report titled “Beyond the Classroom: The Power of Student Involvement.”
