Service Learning combines service to the community with academic objectives to equally benefit the community and the student. Students participate in projects that meet community needs and that involve self-reflection, self-discovery, and the acquisition of values, skills, and content knowledge.

Benefits for Students

• Bridges classroom learning with real-life applications
• Increases student self-confidence and self-esteem
• Increases awareness of societal challenges and resources
• Broadens perspectives of diversity issues
• Credit transfers to many four year institutions*
• Encourages civic responsibility through active community involvement
• Develops career skills and interests

Benefits for the Community

• Provides positive, meaningful ways to meet community needs
• Broadens the community awareness of college programs and initiatives
• Allows working professionals to develop relationships with potential employees
• Strengthens community partnerships
• Encourages ownership of community and increases citizenship

Benefits for Faculty and the College

• Builds rich and active learning experiences in each academic content area
• Increases college staff awareness of potential community resources
• Improves student retention and satisfaction
• Supports the college mission and achievement of accreditation standards of quality
• Deepens connection to local community

*Students should talk to their potential four year institution about requirements and transferable credits