Written Summary/Abstract

Written Summary

For the SLx, we require that you write a summary of service-learning you did this semester. This is a way for you, the presenter, to catch the readers’ attention so that they will look at your submission more closely.

In your summary, please follow the following guidelines:

1.   Your summary should be a well developed paragraph with around 150-250 words. 

2.    Do NOT copy and paste from your poster / video artifact submission. However, there should also be no new or surprising information once put together with your submission.

3.    Include the following information:
An introductory sentence on your service-learning project and class.
– What is the name of this Service-Learning course? (Please refrain from just putting the abbreviation, such as: SOC 340)
– Which community partner (or community need, if you don’t have a formal partner) did you work with for your project?
– What did you do for your service-learning with this partner?

A body outlining an overview of your service-learning experience.
– Did the service help you understand the course material? How?
– Give an example of how your service connected to your class?
– What is something that surprised you?

Conclude by answering the following questions. 
– If you could go back to the beginning of your service, would you do anything differently?
– Has your thinking changed by being a part of a service-learning experience? In what ways?

Sample Summary:

In my Introduction to Social Welfare class, I partnered with the Good Samaritan Society in order to help with bingo nights. In each of my service opportunities, I met more and different people, had one-on-one conversations, and got to know lives that I would not have known otherwise. 

I was able to translate what I have been learning into a live situation. In my class, we talked about Active Theory. This theory states that the more physically and mentally active a person is, the more successfully they will age. I was able to see this theory in action.

At first, it was a little hard to go into a place where I didn’t know anyone and I didn’t know what to expect. After going to Good Samaritan a couple of times I became a lot more comfortable in that space. One thing that surprised me this semester was how much I love working with folks that are older. I have continued to volunteer at Good Samaritan Society and this experience has changed where I want to go with my degree in Social Work.

If I could go back to the beginning of my service, I would be more open with the population at the Good Samaritan. It was hard when I first started volunteering, but after I became more comfortable I really enjoyed this experience. My thinking has changed from having this service-learning course, and I have shifted my career goals for once I obtain my Social Work degree.