Service Learning: Starting Point

CNCS isn't a household word, and maybe AmeriCorp isn't, either. But they make a great starting point for researching "service learning." For many college students, the service learning route is preferred to internships, practicums, and co-ops. You may have called it "volunteer work" up to now, but with a little digging around the CNCS web site, you'll find that service learning is an extensive network of activities and stakeholders. You may find your calling through CNCS and its "family" of programs.

The content on this blog is not offered as legal advice or guidance. Consult your college, advisor, or internship supervisor for help with issues surrounding internships. © 2009 Mary Bold, PhD, CFLE. Dr. Bold is a co-author of the book Reflections: Preparing for your Practicum or Internship, geared to college interns in the child, education, and family fields. More about Dr. Bold can be learned at www.marybold.com

Selecting AmeriCorps

When selecting a site for an internship, there are several places to look: local organizations (possibly affiliated with your college or university), state-wide organizations that may have opportunities near your home town, or national organizations that may have opportunities on the other side of the country.

AmeriCorps is a national organization that offers 75,000 positions at nonprofit groups around the country. Full time, part time, and summer positions are available.

Full-time AmeriCorp members receive a modest stipend and a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725 to pay for college, graduate school, or to pay back student loans. Part-time participants receive a partial stipend.


The content on this blog is not offered as legal advice or guidance. Consult your college, advisor, or internship supervisor for help with issues surrounding internships. © 2008 Mary Bold, PhD, CFLE. Dr. Bold is a co-author of the book Reflections: Preparing for your Practicum or Internship, geared to college interns in the child, education, and family fields. More about Dr. Bold can be learned at www.marybold.com