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Stories from College Service-Learning VIPs


Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates community service with instruction and reflection. Through service-learning, you can apply what you learn in the classroom to better your community. Check out how these college students were able to make a difference through service-learning—we think this makes them Very Inspirational People.

  • Priya
    Priya V. uses her writing and technology skills to help save the environment.
  • Otterbein University
    Westerville, Ohio's Otterbein University, has a strong culture of service and offers over 80 service-learning academic courses in a wide variety of areas of study. Read what Otterbein students had to say about their service-learning experiences.
  • Jessica
    Jessica T., SOFGG (Serving Others for the Greater Good): "I have vowed to live a life devoted to providing assistance to others in need and missionary work is how I chose to personify my heart."
  • Taylor
    Taylor Treat, Miss Oklahoma 2009: "I am a product of service-learning."
  • Rachael
    Rachael Todd, Miss Florida 2009: "I am Rachael Todd, Miss Florida 2009 and service-learning has shaped me into the person I am today."
  • A.J.
    A.J. C., University of Texas, Austin: "In high school, the word 'service-learning' was foreign to me, even though I was engaging in service-learning activities every day. Starting my sophomore year, I became a peer mediator, and I devoted my study halls and lunch breaks to helping my fellow classmates solve conflicts in a nonviolent manner."
  • Theresa
    Theresa H., Otterbein University: "I suppose the most poignant of my service-learning experience occurred last autumn when I was volunteering at a homeless convention."
  • Service: A Solution for Higher Education
    A look at how institutions of higher education leverage service to attract students and faculty, strengthen alumni relations, enrich learning, and transform communities.
  • Tennessee State University
    New Media Service-Learning and Civic Engagement: Highlighting ongoing service-learning programs at Tennessee State University.
  • Portland Community College
    A student describes her service-learning experiences within the university's gerontology program.
  • University of Southern California
    Service-Learning at University of Southern California College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences: 1100 and 1200 students per semester participate in USC's Joint Educational Project, placing them in the field to gain service-learning knowledge.
  • Bowling Green State University
    Students participating in service-learning courses describe their experiences.