Information For Students

Welcome to service learning at Humboldt State University, a chance to move your education outside the classroom to the world beyond.

Students in SP 120: Science Foundations Freshman
Interest Group participate in a service learning project,
helping to restore the native dune habitat at Manila Beach.
Photo by Kellie Brown.

What is service learning, and how is it different from community service or an internship? Service learning integrates formal, academic coursework with applied service that meets the needs of the community. It is a unique opportunity to apply course concepts in "the real world," with ongoing reflection upon this real-world experience in the context of a course. Service learning is different from community service or an internship because it is connected with an academic class, and the focus is on deepening your understanding of course concepts while simultaneously meeting the needs of the community partner.

In addition to coordinating campus efforts to incorporate service learning into the curriculum at HSU, the Service Learning Center also works on a regional and national level to increase students' civic engagement in their communities. HSU serves as the Northern California Regional Center for Student Civic Engagement. Each fall, we host a regional conference, bringing student leaders from northern California and Oregon together to share skills, network, and build alliances. Check current events to learn more about our work as a Regional Center for Student Civic Engagement. On campus, we have been a consistent partner with other student organizations, such as Associated Students, the Multicultural Center, and Youth Educational Services, to promote a continuum of community service.

Here is a partial list of annual events and activities that we sponsor and organize on campus and in the community:

HSU Day (Day of Caring) - This event takes place in early September each year and is coordinated in conjunction with United Way and Volunteer Center of the Redwoods. Students, staff, faculty, and community members commit to a half-day of service in the community working with community agencies, county and city governments, and local area non-profits.

Agency Volunteer Fair - If you're interested in a sustained volunteer opportunity outside a service learning class or you need to find a service project for a class, come to our Agency Volunteer Fair held in the first few weeks of each semester. There you will have a chance to meet dozens of local agencies and find one that meets your needs. Alternatively, we have listed contact information for local area non-profit agencies on our Connections page.

Alternative Spring Break - An intensive week of service and education organized and coordinated by students, for students. Students decide service projects and educational opportunities in fall semester then recruit others for this week of travel, service, and challenge.

Service Learning Center Internships - An internship opportunity is available for students wanting to become more involved in these issues. Interns work in the office to support service learning on campus and in the community and to increase student civic engagement.

Still have questions? Email the Service Learning Office and a Service Learning Intern will get back to you with an answer, or call our office at (707) 826-4964.

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