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Top five reasons to do International Service Learning
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Get hands-on experience in your field
“I chose the Rwanda International Service Learning project because within my International Relations degree I focused on Sub-Saharan Africa and conflict studies. I really wanted to work in a post-conflict country. One year later, my ISL experience has already helped me further my studies. I was accepted to a very competitive summer program run by Johns Hopkins University on conflict prevention, mediation and reconciliation. They told me my application stood out because of my education and my experience in Rwanda. Now that I’ve decided to continue on to graduate school, I hope my Rwanda experience will help those applications stand out too!” Emily Alderson -
Build personal and meaningful relationships with people from a different culture
“For me, the highlight was being able to build personal relationships with the community members. These relationships provided me with a window into the thoughts, beliefs, struggles, dreams, and ambitions of the people living in rural Swaziland. Through these relationships I was able to grapple with the culture and way of life of the people of Swaziland. Developing these connections definitely stands out for me as a highlight and integral part of my experience.” Donovan Duncan -
Apply classroom learning to the real world
“I chose this particular program mainly because of my interest in the learning theme: community-level HIV/AIDS program support. As a nutrition and health student, I have always been fascinated by research and knowledge of HIV/AIDS. I wanted to gain a better understanding and perspective of the social implications of HIV/AIDS on small-scale communities.” Delaram Farshad -
Rekindle your passion for what you’re studying
“The variety of experiences I had in Costa Rica have informed my interests and beliefs, with the result being that in some respects I am reassured in the choices I have made for my degree, and I can more clearly envision the career path that will be the most valuable and fulfilling for myself, as well as how my degree fits into my life.” Rhys Edwards -
Get a new perspective on your life
“I sincerely recommend [International Service Learning] to everyone. It really enriches your university experience! Not only for the way it influences you academically, but for the way it will shape you as a person, with the opportunities to form lasting relationships with people from such diverse backgrounds, to learn and appreciate new cultures, and to discover so many new things along the way!” Laura Roy
Applications
International Service Learning summer and reading break placement applications are now open. Application deadlines begin November 6, 2011. Visit our current programs for details.
Awards and Scholarships
All International Service Learning opportunities are eligible for the International Service Learning award ($1,500 for summer placements, $500 for Reading Week). Some credit-bearing placements are eligible for funding to cover up to 100% of all program and travel-related costs. Visit our Awards webpage for details.
