Four Year Focus

The focus of the Bonner Scholars Program changes as students become more experienced during their four years of service:

First Year: First-year Bonner Scholars take a two-credit course, "Introduction to Community Learning," in the fall semester. The purpose of the course is to link service and academics, consider issues in professional volunteer behavior, and develop portfolios to plan and document service, academic, and other experiences. First-semester Bonner Scholars complete 100 hours of their Bonner work through the course and weekly service at one of Guilford's committed sites. The remaining 40 hours may be filled through regular work with an agency, participation in campus-sponsored weekend projects, or participation in a fall break work trip.

In the spring semester, first-year Bonners complete 100 service hours through regular volunteer placements.  The final 40 hours are gained through a week-long service trip. For the past several years, Guilford first-years have opted to work at the Center Pole Foundation on the Crow Indian Reservation in southeastern Montana. Traveling to the Center Pole gives students the opportunity to work together as a team to sort donations, help with building projects, and learn about Crow culture and traditions.

Sophomore Year: Sophomore Bonner Scholars select a regular placement with a community agency or assist with a project run by an upper class Bonner Scholar. Sophomores also participate in a service exchange with students from another Bonner school to meet other students engaged in community service through the Bonner Foundation.

Junior and Senior Year: Junior and Senior Bonner Scholars are asked to consider their Bonner work in terms of leadership development. Upper division Bonner Scholars, in particular, are encouraged to initiate their own community projects or serve in a leadership capacity with an agency , community organization, or in one of our ongoing community commitments where Guilford students volunteer on a weekly basis.

Bonners in the class of 2007 assist with setting up a teepee, yardwork, and roofing at the Center Pole Foundation in Montana before relaxing inside with Center Pole staff and friends.