How I Built My Leadership Skills as an International Student

Volunteering is often viewed as a way to give back to others, but for me, it became the foundation of my leadership skills journey as an international student. When I first arrived in a new country, everything felt different, the culture, the communication style, and even the classroom dynamics. Yet, through volunteering, I discovered how simple acts of service could teach powerful lessons in teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving. From organizing community events to helping fellow students settle in, every experience strengthened my confidence and my ability to lead with purpose.

Have you ever wondered how to develop strong leadership skills while studying abroad? Or perhaps you’re curious about practical leadership skills activities that can help you connect, grow, and make an impact beyond academics? Many international students face the same challenge, adapting to a new environment while trying to build the confidence to lead. That’s where growth opportunities like volunteering, networking, and leadership skills training come in.

In this article, I’ll share how I built my leadership foundation as an international student, the key leadership skills and activities that shaped my confidence, and the valuable lessons I learned from engaging with communities both on and off campus. And just like Platuni, which helps students and young professionals connect through shared spaces and experiences, these lessons show how collaboration can transform ordinary moments into powerful leadership opportunities.

Why Volunteering Is One of the Best Leadership Skills Training for Students

Volunteering is one of the most practical ways for students to develop real leadership skills. Unlike a classroom where lessons are mostly theoretical, volunteering gives you hands-on experience. It helps you learn how to communicate, organize, and lead people from different backgrounds. Whether you are coordinating a campus event, joining a charity drive, or helping new students settle in, each activity teaches you responsibility, patience, and teamwork, the true foundation of leadership.

When you volunteer, you also step out of your comfort zone. You learn how to manage time, solve problems, and make decisions under pressure, all of which are key leadership skills employers look for. Every project you take part in becomes a mini leadership skills training, showing you how to motivate others, handle challenges, and build confidence in your abilities.

At Platuni, we believe leadership begins with community. By volunteering or participating in shared activities within co-living spaces, students and young professionals get the chance to connect, collaborate, and grow together. These everyday leadership skills activities, from managing shared tasks to supporting one another, help shape stronger, more confident individuals ready to lead both in school and in life.

Also Read: The Role of Nutrition in Brain Health: Boosting Focus and Memory with Food

How Volunteering Built My Leadership Skills as an International Student

Here's how volunteering shaped me into a more confident and compassionate leader.

#1. Learning to Lead by Example

One of the first things I realised was that leadership is more about showing up than speaking up. In every volunteer role I took on, I had to take initiative, stay organised, and model the behaviour I hoped others would follow.

Volunteering gave me real-life scenarios to demonstrate commitment and reliability. Leading by example isn’t just about being seen but about being consistent and dependable even when no one is watching.

> The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi

#2. Strengthening Communication Skills

Whether I was explaining tasks to fellow volunteers, planning with coordinators, or sharing our mission with the public, I had to learn how to communicate clearly and with purpose. Volunteering sharpened my ability to convey ideas, delegate tasks, and listen with intent.

Working with diverse groups also helped me adapt my communication style. This is a crucial skill in leadership, where understanding different perspectives can mean the difference between confusion and cohesion.

According to the Center for Creative Leadership, communication is one of the top competencies that leaders must develop to inspire, align, and get results.

Also Read: How Living Alone Can Impact Your Mental Health

#3. Developing Teamwork and Collaboration

Every project I participated in taught me how to collaborate effectively. It wasn’t always smooth. Sometimes we had tight deadlines or limited resources, but I learned how to delegate, support others, and step up when needed.

Leading and being led were both part of the journey. I saw firsthand that leadership is not just about giving directions but understanding people’s strengths and helping them shine.

Tip: Volunteering in group-based projects like cleanups, fundraising drives, or charity walks is a great way to build teamwork while working toward a meaningful cause.

#4. Developing Problem-Solving Skills

There were moments when things didn’t go as planned. A speaker cancelled, supplies ran out, or the weather turned bad just before an outdoor event. These challenges forced me to think critically and quickly.

Problem-solving in high-pressure situations taught me how to stay calm and resourceful. I became more confident making decisions, even when the path wasn’t clear.

Tip: If you want hands-on leadership experience, take on volunteer roles that require you to plan events or manage logistics. These experiences teach resilience, which is vital in student leadership.

#5. Enhancing Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Volunteering exposed me to people from all walks of life. I worked with children, the elderly, and vulnerable communities. Listening to their stories changed me. It made me more aware, compassionate, and emotionally intelligent.

These soft skills are just as important as technical knowledge, especially if you aspire to lead in multicultural or community-based settings.

> “Leadership is about empathy. It is about having the ability to relate and connect with people to inspire and empower their lives.” — Oprah Winfrey

Emotional intelligence is a top-ranked job skill for 2025.

#6. Increasing Confidence and Responsibility

Volunteering gave me the confidence to take ownership of my actions and decisions. From leading small groups to managing parts of bigger projects, each experience expanded my capacity to lead under pressure and accept responsibility.

One memory that stands out was being asked to lead a campus food drive. At first, I doubted myself, but stepping into that role helped me see what I was capable of. The success of the event gave me the boost I needed to take on bigger challenges.

I also found that co-living with like-minded roommates, who were also engaged in community work, reinforced this growth. Platforms like Platuni.com helped me find a shared housing community where leadership, collaboration, and purpose weren’t just buzzwords but were part of our everyday student life.

Also Read: Building Remote Work Relationships | Platuni Tips Guide

Conclusion

Volunteering has been one of the most powerful tools in building my leadership journey. It taught me how to lead with empathy, think critically under pressure, communicate effectively, and take initiative, all while serving a greater purpose.

If you're looking to strengthen your student leadership skills, start by getting involved in your community. The growth you’ll experience is not only personal but also professional.

Start where you are. Serve with purpose. Lead with heart.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Leadership Skills Through Volunteering

How does volunteering help students build leadership skills?

Volunteering provides real-life opportunities to practice leadership skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and empathy. By taking initiative and supporting others, students grow into confident and responsible leaders.

What are some leadership skills activities I can try as a student?

You can join group volunteer projects, lead fundraising drives, coordinate campus events, or mentor peers. These leadership skills activities allow you to practice collaboration, decision-making, and leading by example.

Can volunteering count as leadership skills training?

Yes! Volunteering is a practical form of leadership skills training. Unlike a classroom, it gives hands-on experience in managing challenges, working with diverse groups, and learning how to inspire others.

How can international students find leadership opportunities?

International students can start small by joining local community initiatives, campus clubs, or cultural associations. Platforms like Platuni also connect students to shared housing communities where collaboration, leadership growth, and networking happen naturally.