Service Learning

Saint Elizabeth University prides itself on the inclusion of service-learning that is embedded in some of its courses. Service-learning is an opportunity for students to bring their course work to life by volunteering out in the local community.

Students perform a set number of hours in a pre-approved placement that is aligned with the theme of their course, and this volunteer work seeks to give students real life experience in the field they are considering.

Service Learning Trips

Each year a group of students and staff travel to rural or urban areas throughout the country to participate in an intense week of service and community learning, sponsored by both the Center and the Office of Campus Ministry. Throughout the week, students learn about pressing social justice issues while working directly with site management, food preparation and reflection activities.

Past trips include New Jersey, Maryland, Mexico, Mississippi, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.

Requirements

Students pay a nominal fee for the trip and are selected upon successful completion of a thorough application and interview process. Students are prepared for their experience through mandatory orientation and training sessions before departing on the trip. Both students and attending staff participate in group meetings and reflection sessions during the trip, as well as a post-trip reflection meeting.

Types of Spring Break service include work with:

During Spring Break, students learn about some of society's most complex issues, including:

By engaging in true activism, participants beam with pride over the work they have accomplished, and cherish the lessons they have learned and people they have met along the way.