1. Service Learning Tara McCoy

2. What is Service Learning? “Service learning is a teaching method that combines service to the community with classroom curriculum. It is more than merely community service. It is a hands-on approach to mastering subject material while fostering civic responsibility.” ▫http://www.statefarm.com/about/part_spos/community/ed_excel/servlrng.asp

3. What are Some Benefits of Service Learning? “Students in service-learning classes can benefit academically, professionally, and personally. These are just a few of the ways: Increase your understanding of the class topic Gain hands-on experience (possibly leading to an internship or job later) Explore or cement your values and beliefs Have opportunities to act on your values and beliefs Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills Grow your understanding of diverse cultures and communities Learn more about social issues and their root causes Improve your ability to handle ambiguity and be open to change; become more flexible Develop or enhance your skills, especially in the areas of communication, collaboration, and leadership Test out your skills, interests, and values in a potential career path, or learn more about a field that interests you Connect with professionals and community members who you will learn from Grow a professional network of people you might connect with again later for jobs or internships Satisfy your urge toward public service or civic participation” ▫http://www.servicelearning.umn.edu/info/benefits.html

4. What Service Learning Have I Done? Throughout my time here at Valdosta State I have gotten a lot more involved with the community. I have done quite a few things for the Children’s Advocacy Center as well with Relay for Life, the animal shelter, cleaning up the highway, and cleaning up the campus.

5. Animal Shelter Whenever I go to the animal shelter I try to take out as many dogs as I can, as well as try to get the dogs and cats adopted by the people that come in. I love going to the animal shelter, every time I go I feel like a better person. I am a very big animal person so knowing that I am helping an animal there get a good home makes me feel good. Even if I am unable to get a dog adopted I still enjoy my time there because bringing them outside to play makes them so excited.

8. Shamrock Event The shamrock Event is a flag football tournament held for abused children. One-hundred percent of the proceeds to go Child Abuse America. I raised money from businesses and went out of the fields to support our players six hours a day. A week before the tournament I went to the Children's Advocacy Center and talked to some of the women that worked there, and they told us stories of the kids that go there. I felt that I got a lot out of being involved in this event. It made me feel like I was making a difference and helping a child in need.

9. Adopt A Highway I did Adopt a Highway with my FYE class. My freshman year experience class adopt a highway and we keep that highway free from litter. When I went we cleaned up the highway for an hour.

10. Relay for Life American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

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