Q: Are the project dates flexible?
A: This depends on the site, in many cases students have some say in determining start and end dates. A few sites have formal programs with set dates, especially summer schools, day and overnight camps.
Q: Will the scholarship affect my financial aid package?
A: The SSLP scholarships do not affect a student’s financial aid package, except in some cases portions of subsidized loans have become unsubsidized loans. For more information, see Andrea. Varsity athletes on full scholarship are not eligible to receive an SSLP scholarship.
Q: What is the AmeriCorps Award?
A:The $1000 AmeriCorps Award is available to SSLP students. It is not suggested for students who are considering 2-year, domestic post-grad service programs such as ACE or Teach for America. The reason is that a person only has 2 years of eligibility for AmeriCorps awards in their lifetime. The summer counts as a year and the student receives $1000. If they do a full-time service program, they receive $4,725 each year for two years.
Q: Can I participate if I will be studying abroad in the spring semester?
A. Yes, you can apply and interview in the fall semester and work through email on the placement during the spring semester. The orientation will be taped and a DVD sent to your home address along with the course materials for the summer.
Q: How do I participate in the follow-up discussions if I will be studying abroad in the fall semester?
A: You will do the follow-up and receive credit for the course in the semester that you return to campus. In most cases, this will be the spring semester following your SSLP. For those going abroad for the year, you will do the follow-up the fall that you return.
Q: Will I be provided with meals during the SSLP?
A: If you live with a host family, you will have your meals there. If your site does not provide lunch, you can bring a sack lunch with you from the host family. If you live on site, your meals will be provided.
Q: Who will provide my local transportation?
A: It varies – some sites require the student to bring a car, but in many cases you will live within walking distance to your site or be able to take public transportation. Occasionally, the alumni club will provide a car for your use over the summer.
Q: How do I receive my $2300 scholarship?
A: The funds will be transferred directly to your student account once you have completed the program requirements. The funds can be applied towards your fall tuition or room and board. If you have a full tuition scholarship and will live off-campus, talk to Andrea about how you will receive the $2300.
Q: How do I pay for my travel from home to the city I will be working in for the summer?
A: Students cover their own costs to and from the city of your SSLP site. If this is a barrier to your participation in the program, we have limited financial assistance available to help cover the cost of transportation.
Q: Will I be able to visit my family over the summer?
A: We encourage your family to visit you and meet the people with whom you work. Your first responsibility is to your site, your second is to the Alumni Club, and after then comes all other relationships and interests that you have. Some sites require you to work weekend and evening hours, so your time off may vary. Students who immerse themselves into a new environment for the full 8-weeks seem to get the most out of the experience.
Q: How do I spend my free time?
A: Alumni Clubs will invite you to some social activities, and you are free to explore your new community once your other obligations have been fulfilled for the day.
