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As an IPSL service-learning participant, wherever you are in the world,  you will have the opportunity to perform volunteer service in one of several local partner organizations/agencies. IPSL does its best to match your skills and interests to the placement, but please remember that the notion of service is, first and foremost, to respond to the needs of others. You will play a role not only by actively participating with a determined role among the team members, but also by supporting the projects and programs with your knowledge, experience, humility and hard work. In turn, your efforts assist organizations in achieving their goals in a sustainable, ethical way. 

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Service Learning versus internship/practicum

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IPSL service learning placements are determined, in part, by student interests and skills (and, in some cases, language abilities), but primarily by community and organizational needs. Central to the philosophy of service learning is the notion of service. Service learning is not the same as an internship or practicum although it may look very similar. The service in service learning may or may not be career-related. An internship is designed mostly so that the student will benefit by learning about his/ her future profession. In contrast, in service learning, the outcome of the student's work — that is, the service — is as important as the student’s learning. There are — or should be — benefits to those served. This reciprocity is a key component in international service learning.