Center for Social Innovation

Service Learning Initiative Students describe the nature and significance of the service learning experience at Stanford's Graduate School of Business.

Trip benefits

Trips are intense personal experiences that foster long-lasting personal bonds with peers and people across cultures. They are an opportunity to:

• Gain a deeper understanding of social and environmental issues
• Work alongside social entrepreneurs and explore innovative solutions to global issues
• See through firsthand experience how your management education can contribute to effective and sustainable solutions
• Develop a lifelong commitment to service

A faculty advisor will accompany you on your journey of discovery, supporting your learning and contributing relevant expertise.

Typical trip agenda

Trips introduce you to a variety of perspectives, approaches, and leadership styles, as shared and exemplified by:

• Leading social entrepreneurs
• Business leaders
• Government officials
• Community-based organizations and their leaders

Trips will engage you on many levels through:

• Observation
• Discussion
• Reflection
• Service

Post-trip service learning opportunities

After the trip, you will have opportunities to be of service to the people and organizations you meet through academic or summer consulting projects to support social impact in the field.

• Post-trip Service Projects: Earn two units of academic credit by completing a consulting project, research paper, or case study for one of your trip’s partner organizations.
• Service Learning Project Fund: Return to conduct an on-site project to benefit one of the organizations visited on your Service Learning Trip. Proposals to the Service Learning Project Fund are accepted during winter and spring quarters.