International Service Learning

One of the more popular forms of “education abroad,” after formal study programs, is service learning. Every year dozens of Schreyer Scholars go abroad to help communities, organizations, or the natural environment. These experiences are sometimes sponsored by Penn State academic units or student organizations, and sometimes they are self-designed, but most often they are offered by specialized service-learning providers not affiliated with Penn State.

Basic Information

How much does it cost?

Many people ask, "Why should I have to pay to volunteer?" The answer is that the program usually takes care of the volunteers' housing and food for the duration of the program. Also, the service experience itself often must be designed and supervised by the program. Programs that fully integrate service and learning for college credit are always more expensive, because of the academic infrastructure needed to deliver college-level instruction. Even among programs that do not offer credits, costs can vary widely according to level of supervision and other overhead expenses. As a very general rule, “you get what you pay for”: providers that are very cheap, like Volunteers for Peace (which many Scholars have used, and with good outcomes), generally provide less on-site support than, for example, Cross-Cultural Solutions. Think about your general comfort level in new situations, and in the specific situation you’re looking for (in terms of language familiarity, for one thing), before choosing a more-structured vs. less-structured program.

Where can I find international service-learning opportunities?

You can find directories of program providers at http://www.volunteerabroad.com/search.cfm, and you can also do your own keyword searches on the Web. None of these programs are Penn State-related and the University can’t vouch for any of them, but the SHC’s international programs coordinator (Dr. Stoller) can help you determine which program might be most appropriate for you.

Is there funding for international service learning?

While you pay for the service experience, there are ways to obtain funding. The Honors College offers Schreyer Ambassador Grants for students studying abroad, and students participating in service learning are eligible for these grants You can also inquire in your department and academic college, though many offices are reluctant to fund non-credit-bearing and non-Penn State programs—and most international service-learning programs fall into both of these categories!

Service Learning Timeline (for summer programs)

Fall Semester

Begin thinking about what countries or regions are of interest
Check the Web for service opportunities, and research programs that interest you
Apply for a passport if you don’t already have one—initial passport applications can take up to six months.

Early Spring Semester (January, February, March)

Narrow down options
Research airfares before choosing a program, and confirm available funding from the Schreyer Ambassador Travel Grant program
Book space in the program of choice—note that different programs, even from the same program provider, may have different deadlines.
If a visa is necessary to enter your chosen country, you should get it well in advance, following the instructions of your program provider. Depending on the country and the program, you may get a tourist visa (usually the easiest and cheapest) or a more specialized visa requiring a more extensive application.

Things You'll Need To Go

Initiative

The Schreyer Honors College staff will provide assistance in making your plans come true, but you need to take the initiative in finding the right program, thoroughly researching the country you will travel to, completing your applications, and arranging for everything else on this list.

Peace of mind

If countries (or regions or communities within countries) were wealthy and problem-free, they wouldn’t be suitable locations for service learning! Before making any plans, make sure to check the website of the State Department (www.state.gov) for travel warnings and advisories. Be sure that you are comfortable with the situation of your chosen country before putting your deposit down. The SHC can't provide funding for travel to any country (or region within a country) currently under a State Department travel warning.

Vaccinations

Check with your doctor to find out what shots are required for entry into specific countries.
Countries in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America require more shots than Europe.
Tropical countries often have malaria problems, requiring medication before, during, and (very important!) after your trip. Consult with your doctor before committing to a destination that calls for malaria medication.

International Insurance

Since you will not be abroad via Penn State (except if you choose HOINA or one of the few other Penn State-affiliated service programs abroad), you will need to be sure of your international insurance coverage. If your existing coverage is not adequate, you can purchase short-term international insurance—consult with your service provider about what’s best for your situation.

Some Major International Service Programs

Amizade (www.amizade.org)

Cross-Cultural Solutions (www.crossculturalsolutions.org)

Global Volunteers (www.globalvolunteers.org)

International Partnership for Service Learning (www.ipsl.org)

Volunteers for Peace (www.vfp.org)

Note: Because these programs have no Penn State affiliation, we cannot officially endorse any of them, nor does this list cover all viable options for students interested in service abroad. These are all multi-country providers, but if you have a particular country in mind you may find other providers focusing on that country—or you may even be able to make your own service placement.