Oxford Service Corps

In the words of Margaret Mead, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever had."

Apply to be a member of the Oxford Service Corps at Oxford College today! Complete the online application. To be considered, your application must be submitted by Monday, August 15 at midnight.

The mission of the Oxford Service Corps is to transform the lives of students, enhance the ethos of service in the Oxford College community, and provide meaningful service to the community surrounding the college and beyond.

Oxford Service Corps began in 2006 as a Bonner Leader Program. In fall 2014, the program transitioned to a uniquely Oxford program, capitalizing on the campus culture while providing more flexibility in service options and program requirements. Oxford Service Corps is the most intensive of a continuum of service programs at Oxford.

Who are Oxford Service Corps members?

Oxford Service Corps members are a select group of freshmen and sophomores committed to making a difference in the lives of others and the world around them. They undertake service in the local community approximately eight hours per week and also participate in weekly meetings, group service projects, retreats, and outings.

What are the financial benefits?

Oxford Service Corps members receive financial compensation for their work in the community and are paid an hourly rate of $7.50. If a student is eligible for work-study, this will serve as their work-study position. They can earn up to $2,500 per academic year.

Where do they serve?

Service sites vary and are arranged based on interests and schedules. They include working with students at local schools and in afterschool tutoring programs; troubled youth in the juvenile courts system; adult literacy programs; transitional housing programs; and environmental and governmental agencies.

Top 5 reasons to be a Oxford Service Corps member:

1. You can step outside your comfort zone and, in the process, learn time-management and team-building skills and be exposed to people different from you.
2. You can explore beyond the walls of Oxford College and learn what it takes to be a community leader.
3. You can learn about yourself while learning about the world around you.
4. You can be a role model for the community and for other students.
5. You can be a part of a tight-knit group of peers who share your commitment to service, passion for helping others, and desire to change your community for the better.

What do students say about the program?

“This program is for students who want to put down roots in Oxford and truly get a feel for what life is like in the place they’ll be living for the next two years. It’s for people who believe that they can make a difference in the world by helping just one person.” — Anthony Chirillo, 2011–2013

“This has truly been the highlight of my first year here. It made the transition easier to have an accepting community available right from the start.” — Mia Benevolenza, 2013–2015

“Serving in the community has been one of the most meaningful experiences I have had in college.” — Naveed Noordin, 2013–2015

“It was one of the most rewarding and enlightening experiences I could have asked for. It truly changed the way I view service and those I served — yes, I was doing service, but those I served were making just as much of a difference in my life.” — Sarah Perlin, 2012–2013

“Immersing yourself in the larger community truly changes your outlook on the world. It gives you the unique opportunity to come together with your peers to make a difference, one service opportunity at a time.” — Eve Chung, 2013–2015