Service-Learning Courses Connect Students with Community, Foster Academic Growth
The Center for Community Engagement is redefining education through its service-learning courses. These unique courses combine traditional classroom instruction with hands-on community service, providing students with an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. having a transformative impact on students, faculty, and the surrounding community.
From working with local nonprofits to addressing critical social issues, students gain valuable skills while making a difference.
For Philip Graulty, professor of guitar and music fundamentals, service-learning has transformed his teaching approach. Graulty has been teaching the Music Studies Integration course since 2018.
“This course was already being offered by my department before I started teaching it, but I quickly saw its potential to make a real impact,” he said. “Service-learning classes not only give students an opportunity to apply what they’re learning in their degree programs to a real-world project, they also allow them to be of service to their community, develop their skills and professional network, and learn how to problem solve creatively.”
Through the class, students work with Pomona-based community partners to create short-term projects to address the needs of those the organization serves. One of the most impactful examples is the partnership with the Pomona Public Library.
“When my students and I first reached out in 2020, the library expressed a need for after-school programming catering towards teens,” he said. “My students proposed a three-part, entry-level music production workshop that encompassed beat making, songwriting, and digital audio recording. It was a huge success, meeting the library’s needs while giving my students a chance to apply their skills to a real-world, service-oriented project.”
Graulty encourages other faculty to explore service-learning opportunities.
“Go for it,” he said. “Start by browsing the list of community partner sites on BroncoSERV to imagine potential partnerships for your class. The CCE has been an incredible resource and support for me throughout this process.”
This collaboration also has had a significant impact on the Pomona Public Library, according to Anita Torres, deputy director of Library Services and an advisory board member for the Community Innovation Hub.
“The partnership with Professor Graulty’s service-learning students has brought a unique and impactful education experience to the Pomona Public Library, filling a gap in community programming,” Torres said. “I’ve heard parents and kids talk about how fun the program has been, and I have witnessed firsthand the engaging and supportive environment cultivated by Professor Graulty and his students. These music workshops have built children’s confidence, fostered group participation, and significantly increased attendance year over year. We’ve even had families return to attend multiple workshops. We look forward to continuing this collaboration, working together to strengthen community connections through creative and educational opportunities.”
Students have experienced similar growth through their participation in service-learning projects. Riane Feras, a commercial vocal performance major emphasized how service-learning deepened her professional and personal development.
“It taught me things like how to work with others to create, plan, and execute a big project,” Feras said.
Reflecting on the partnership with the dA Center for the Arts in Downtown Pomona, she highlighted the success of an Open Mic/Karaoke Night, noting the community’s enthusiasm and engagement.
“One of the community members asked if we were going to do the event again,” she said. “It was rewarding to see how much it resonated with people.”
Dajahnae Brown, commercial vocal performance major, described the course as life changing. As the lead coordinator for her project with the Pomona Public Library, she honed skills in organization, coordination, and community building.
“This experience taught me patience, kindness, and insightfulness,” she said. “Working with K-5 students gave me a glimpse into my future career as an educator and non-profit organizer. I want to continue creating service programs for young students.”
Brown added, “To anyone considering a service-learning course, take it! You’ll gain important academic and professional skills, build a beautiful community, and create memories that last a lifetime. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever been a part of.”
The Center for Community Engagement provides comprehensive support for students and faculty interested in service-learning, from course development to connecting with community partners. Whether you’re a student looking to deepen your academic journey or a faculty member seeking to enhance your courses, service-learning is a pathway to meaningful growth and impact.
For more information, visit the Center for Community Engagement’s website or contact their office at cce@cpp.edu.