In honor of Women’s History Month, the NIU Women’s Studies Program is bringing attention to various women’s issues.

An open panel discussion, “Volunteerism: Past and Present,” is being hosted today from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Reavis Hall, Room 211.

Jolene Skinner, program coordinator with Women’s Studies, said the panel discussion will answer questions like, “What can women gain from volunteer experience?” and “What do employers look for when evaluating volunteer experience?”

“When we think of volunteerism, we think of women traditionally,” she said. “Although that may not be fair to men.”

Jeanne Meyer, program coordinator for the sexual assault programs with Safe Passage, and Mary Beth Markwell, the director of community relations with the Girl Scouts, will be the speakers for the event.

They will be available to answer any questions students may have.

The discussion will be very beneficial and it will enlighten students to the fact that internships aren’t the only way to gain experience, Skinner said.

“One thing that the panel will show is that volunteerism is great for career development,” she said. “And also to help get that first job.”