For Students

What is CBL? - CBL Opportunities - Student Voices

What is CBL? 

CBL happens when academic experience meets community engagement. The Office of Community-Based Learning supports the development of courses that engage with the community in reciprocal and mutually beneficial ways.

What CBL Opportunities Are Available?

1. Take a CBL course
2. Learn about CBL internship opportunities
3. Become a CBL Teaching Assistant
4. Connect with Engage W&L to learn about volunteer possibilities in the community



What Do Students Say about CBL?

Over 95% of Students Who Took a Community-Engaged Course Agree That...

• They benefited from their community-engaged course
• They addressed a community-identified goal
• Engaging in the community deepened their understanding of course materials

"Working with the community impacted how I comprehended the larger and deeper meaning behind the readings we did in class."

"I enjoyed talking with community members and other volunteers and learned the most through those interactions. It was nice to feel like I was giving back to the community rather than just using its resources."

"The biggest part of the course concepts I took away is reflecting and growing professionally. While working with my community partner I was able to practice ethical procedures such as confidentiality and expressing a non-judgmental attitude when interacting with different individuals. As a growing professional, I was able to build the way I run meetings, communicate, and behave in this setting. Working with an outside W&L group was also important to keep in mind because I was not only representing myself but the university."

Read more student voices!

What Do Students Experience in CBL Courses?

  • Participate in the Lexington and Rockbridge Community
  • Build positive relationships between W&L and the broader community
  • Gain experience addressing real-world problems
  • Develop skills that translate well into resumes and future careers
  • Challenge personal perspectives and assumptions in a supportive environment
  • Work with individuals outside the university towards common goals that entail mutual understanding and respect
  • Connect classroom learning to the real world
  • Move with others towards a just and equitable society