Exploring Impact on Student Participants Through Campus Community Service in Higher Education
Open Access DepositedEXPLORING IMPACT ON STUDENT PARTICIPANTS THROUGHCAMPUS COMMUNITY SERVICE IN HIGHER EDUCATION The study consists of a qualitative assessment of student volunteers involved in a universitycommunity service program. A representative sample of students participated in the process, which included a one hour interview and the option to participate in a follow-up focus group. The goal was to gather information from the rich experience of a divc:rse population of volunteers who have served at sites across the service spectrum at this higher education institution. The service organization that was selected is primarily focused on undergrad1uate students. The programs are jointly managed by students and campus administration and involve service in education and human needs within one Washington, D.C. neighborhood. This study finds that the effect of service on student volunteers is profound. In fact, it showsthat volunteering in a structured service program had important ramifications for both the participant and the institution. The findings indicate that student volunteers gain many tangible competencies in academic, personal, and career areas. In addition, student volunteers make connections in understanding vital social issues, developing a life commitment to civic responsibility, and strengthening their civic participation. Finally, these findings affinn that students themselves believe that service plays a pivotal role in community life and should be part ofthe academic experience, both in and out ofthe traditional classroom. The implications for the higher education community are also important and carry significantweight. These findings suggest that institutions and students need to maintain a partnership in order for service to be effective. In addition, when service programs are conducted in a manner which is educational, reflective, and linked to campus and community resources, both students and colleges can gain significantly from the multifaceted experience of volunteerism.
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Konwerski_gwu_0075A_16766.pdf | 2025-04-11 | Open Access |
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