Meet the Coleraine Office Volunteers
ANDREW CONN - Castlerock, Northern Ireland
September 2004 to present - Coleraine Office
Hey, my name’s Andrew, I’m currently studying at the University of Ulster, Coleraine for a degree in Environmental Science. As part of the degree programme, students are encouraged to take an optional year’s work experience.
I decided to take my chances with Conservation Volunteers. Before I began in September 2004 I had a clear and stigmatised perception in my head about what Conservation Volunteers was involved in, “a bunch of hippie, tree huggers”. I was relieved to discover that my view was only partially realised.
Whilst volunteering I have been involved in a wide variety of projects. Not all of which have been terribly exciting but all of them are vital to increase the biodiversity of Northern Ireland.
An important aspect carried out by Conservation Volunteers is the education of young people in local schools and communities. It was great to be able to support Ms McDowell with the growing education programme here in Coleraine. I found it very rewarding to see the level of enthusiasm they showed and to work with the children in different schemes.
I had no idea that Conservation Volunteers was so active in local communites, promoted cross-community relations, built nature and sensory gardens in schools and much, much more.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Conservation Volunteers. All the staff and volunteers have been very friendly and made me feel like part of the team. As I said at the beginning, before I began I knew very little about what lay ahead. All I knew was that I was here for a years work experience... and what an experience it has been!!!