Experiences with youth in schools and community organizations can be an excellent way to expand awareness and understanding of one’s own cultural and social background and of the wide diversity of social and cultural groups within U.S. society and schools. Volunteer or service learning experiences can also help students gain valuable experiences in the profession of education, and help develop interpersonal, multicultural, and reflective skills.
Volunteering and service learning experiences are recommended but not required for most programs. The following guidelines will help students while finding and choosing their experience:
- Seek experiences that will expand understanding of various social and cultural groups within the U.S. Social and cultural groups can be based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, language, religion, or other aspects of the wide diversity of cultural identity represented in U.S. society and schools.
- Seek experiences that require regular interaction with school-aged youth.
- Complete a minimum of 25 hours in each experience and spend a minimum of 10 weeks if the experience is during the academic year. Students volunteering in school-based programs are encouraged to commit to the experience for a minimum of one full semester, with at least once-per-week contact.
- Because opportunities for reflection are important, consider service learning opportunities, especially those offered through the format of a course.
When should I begin seeking field experiences?
All students interested in teacher certification programs are strongly encouraged to pursue community and school opportunities before applying to teacher certification programs. These experiences can help students explore their interest in teaching before committing to an education program. Also, many education programs require students to write an essay when applying. Generally, students earn higher scores on this essay if they have completed community or school experiences, and if they are able to reflect thoughtfully on the learning that took place through these experiences.
How do I set up the experience?
You can find out about opportunities of interest by visiting EAS or the Morgridge Center for Public Service. Talk with an EAS advisor about volunteer opportunities.
Contact the potential school or organization to obtain specific information about the commitment required, particular skills or interests required, location, days, and times. Meet with the school or organization to learn more. Make sure to ask the following questions:
- What will my commitment involve–length of time, days and times?
- What activities will I be doing?
- What has made previous volunteers/employees successful?
- What is the overall mission of the program
- Are there any orientation and/or training opportunities?
- Who is my supervisor and who can I go to for guidance?
Orientation and Training
EAS offers a “how to get started” session covering the following topics: finding volunteer opportunities; getting the most out of experiences; tips from students for students; ways of learning about multicultural education. Sign up at EAS or call 608-262-1651.
The Morgridge Center for Public Service and the Madison Metropolitan School District often offer volunteer training programs. Contact the Morgridge Center in the Red Gym for an updated list of campus and community training opportunities. Also, ask your supervisor at the volunteer site about training opportunities.
How do I find an experience?
Volunteer Opportunities
The School of Education is committed to helping students share their knowledge and passions with the community and offer a wide range of volunteering and outreach opportunities.
Morgridge Center for Public Service
The Morgridge Center for Public Service connects UW–Madison students, staff, and faculty to local and global communities to build partnerships and solve critical issues through service and learning.