SHU Volunteer Programs & Service Learning

Upcoming March VP&SL Events

Check out these upcoming events coming this month! Download March Community Engagement Resources

Cara's GSL Costa Rica Experience

Coming into college, I knew I wanted to take every opportunity that came my way. One experience I have always had in mind was to study abroad, but due to COVID, that is nearly impossible right now. I decided to take part in the VPSL program in Costa Rica because I wanted to get educated on social issues outside of those in my community. Though this program was virtual, I made connections with people that I now cherish, and I realized that despite cultural differences, we are all dealing with similar issues in every part of the world, and we need to treat each other as such. Because of this program, I now understand different economical approaches, have been immersed in another culture, and most importantly I was reminded that no matter one’s geological location, we are all human beings who deserve to be treated as human beings. During this program, we met Costa Ricans, and I am teaching young children from Costa Rica how to speak English. I am not connected to people in places other than the United States and I will forever be grateful for this experience.

Adriana's Online Italy GSL Program Reflection

The Italy program was a great experience. I met a lot of great people including some of my classmates I plan to keep in contact with and even suggested doing lunch. It was great in this aspect that I would not have met this people otherwise. The instructors of the course were very understanding with the work load. They made us feel comfortable during class and were always there for assistance. I enjoyed learning about Juri’s way of life and many other presenters he brought in. The program has made me look at Italy in a different way no and I have a sense of respect for what he and others are doing.

Jenna's GSL Italy Reflection

Virtually engaging in cross cultural education, while establishing global connections, allowed me to authentically experience the ‘learning’ aspect of service-learning. Exploring Trentino, Italy through environmental, agricultural, and economic lenses diversified my perspective on study abroad. Most importantly, collaboratively helping the international education organization, Dolomit, reinvigorated my desire to grow as an active global citizen.  

Jenna Calabrese 

Costa Rica Reflection

This experience has been extremely different compared to the past programs I have done; however, I wouldn’t have changed any of it. The smiles, laughs, beautiful new faces and amazing new traditions and cultures to learn. I am thankful to everyone who brought us a new experience and taught us a little bit more of Costa Rica. 

I enjoyed every single talk, lesson and love brought to these meetings. Talking with Viviana personally was amazing I love being able to speak Spanish and was very moved about the difficulties Viviana goes through with her own family. I related a lot to what she was saying because I lived in a small town just like hers for about 5 years which had no hospital nearby, no professional medical care and barely functioning police station. While we may see the struggles of Viviana, Jendry and of course Zoilamerica we also see the beautiful smiles and traditions that I believe make up all of Costa Rica. Thank you very much for allowing me to be a part of such a wonderful experience that will forever be in my heart. 

Sophia Yanes 

Megan Hartnett's Virtual AMP Experience

• This is my second year as a mentor for AMP, and even though we are virtual, it is still such an amazing program to be a part of. My mentee is so much fun to talk to each week, and we have created a strong bond over the past year. He has grown so much as a student, and he pushes himself each week to do the best that he can with his schoolwork. Joining AMP was the best decision I have made, and I wish I began as a freshman. 
• Megan Hartnett ‘21

 

New Year, New Experience

• Coming back for a second year of AMP was something that I was looking forward to since March. Even though this year was going to be different than the last, I’m still grateful that it’s happening at all. I love being able to work with my mentee and see her continue to grow and change from the first time I met her to now. As much as I wish that all of the mentors and mentees could be face to face with one another, this experience is something that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
• Gabby Teutul ‘23

AMP Brings Joy During Difficult Time

• It has been such a pleasure working with the students of John Winthrop because they have brought so much joy to these tough times. This is my first year being a mentor so I have not had the chance to experience AMP in the “normal way”. This would normally be disappointing however, I have had the chance to meet so many amazing kids and despite being online, we all still have amazing connections. I can’t wait to continue working with these kids!
• Sara Webel ‘22

AMP On Zoom

• This is my second year being a mentor for AMP and I was a little wary of how this would be over Zoom since I was able to do it in person last year. Even with everything being online, coming to AMP and seeing all the kids interact with each other during enrichment always puts a smile on my face. It’s so nice to see them get so excited about the games we have and participate even while it’s over Zoom. Being able to come each week and hang out with the kids is always a nice part of my week and definitely is a stress reliever!
• Victoria Acca, ’22

 

AMP Gives Happiness

• With everything in our lives on pause right now, it has been so nice to be able to still come to AMP every week and connect virtually. Being with all the kids never fails to put a smile on my face and always reassures me that no matter how much it feels like the world is upside down, there still is so much to be happy about!
• Cassidy Woods ‘21