Work with the Community
If community service is important to you, rest assured that there are many opportunities to continue this work at USC Dornsife.
We encourage all of our students to deepen their engagement with volunteer work by taking part in one or more of the many service-learning opportunities we offer. You’ll apply academic coursework to the real world by helping others – it’s a win-win situation!
Joint Educational Project (JEP)
Established in 1972, the USC Joint Educational Project (a.k.a. “J-E-P”) is one of the oldest and largest service-learning programs in the United States.
Each year, over 2,000 USC students enroll in JEP’s service-learning, work-study, and volunteer programs. Over the years, JEP has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for its pioneering contributions to the field. JEP offers a wide range of service and service-learning opportunities in nearby schools, community-based organizations, health-care facilities, and legal clinics. JEP partners with USC faculty who offer course credit for participating in JEP; the program offers community service opportunities for alumni, USC employees, and general student volunteers as well.
Imagine taking a poetry writing course and spending time mentoring elementary school students with their own creative work; consider doing legal research for a nonprofit environmental law organization; provide assistance to the nursing staff at a local health clinic; or spend time helping clients build resumes at a nonprofit organization assisting homeless individuals.
All of JEP’s programs combine hands-on experience with reflective practice, enabling students to learn firsthand about the critical issues facing the communities surrounding USC.
