What Do You Think About Service Learning Classes?

Question

One of the courses (a social science class) I want to take at college in the fall is divided into 2 sections. The difference between the two is that one of classes is a mandatory service learning and the other is not. I'm thinking about registering for the service learning class, but I'm not sure if I should. I want to know your opinions and/or experiences with it.

What was your experience like in service learning? Would you take other service learning classes if you could? How does it differ from volunteering/community service? Would you recommend it for a college freshman for first semester?

Thanks!!

Answer 1

I have a friend who took one her freshman year. She a is pre-social work major. She enjoyed it but she felt it was a little stressful because she had to maintain the hours for service for that class, do other volunteer projects for the clubs she was in, work, and find time to study and socialize. She also had a full courseload because she was taking honor classes. I don't think that the bulk of her stress came from the service learning class because she told me that she didn't have a lot of homework or tests or papers for that class. She did, however, have to fill out a daily journal but that wasn't a problem.

If she was answering this question I'm sure she would definitely recommend that you do it because it's a great opportunity and you will learn alot. But she will also advise you to make sure your schedule is balanced and that you don't have too many commitments.

PS: I answered your other question too. =]