USM Citizen Scholars

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Students who earn 100+ service hours, participate in a community-engaged learning experience, and complete a reflective exit interview will be recognized as a Southern Miss Citizen Scholar and receive a medallion.

Register
Submit an Experience
FAQ

1.      Service Hours Requirement – 100+ Hours 

Service hours must meet the guidelines for approved community service. Hours should be submitted in Get Connected (volunteer.usm.edu).  These hours may be accumulated from the beginning of your first undergraduate year and completed by the end of the semester prior to your graduating semester. The 100+ hours are in addition to hours earned during the Community Engaged Learning Experience Requirement (see below). 

Students will receive notifications upon reaching 30+ hours, 70+ hours, and 100+ hours.  

2.   Select One: Community-Engaged Learning Experience  (updated 2/1/26)- must complete ONE of the below (see definitions)

• 2 designated Academic Service-Learning Classes (you may also suggest a SL track option as part of any course)
• Non-Profit/Public Internship or Practicum (must be through a class - e.g. IDS 491, SWK 430, PS 494, or student teaching practicum)
• IDS 450 Practicum in Leadership (online, asynchronous, offered every spring and fall - conduct a community-engaged leadership project of your choice
• Community-Engaged Research Project 
• Approved Community-Engaged Honors Thesis 

3.      Reflective Exit Interview 

Students completing the program will be asked to share the impact being involved in the community has had on them as a student, person, and future professional. The interview allows you to articulate what you’ve learned about your role as a Citizen Scholar.  

How to join the Citizen Scholar Program: 

You need to complete the registration form and attend an orientation meeting in order to be fully accepted into the program.  When you apply, it’s not necessarily a commitment, but we’ll use this information to track your progress and send you helpful resources. During your orientation, we'll meet with you to get to know you and discuss options best suited to your interests and major. 

Deadlines: 

The 100+ service hour requirement and community-engaged learning requirement must be complete and all documentation submitted by the end of the semester prior to your graduating semester, unless granted an exception by CCE. Your reflective exit interview will take place during your final semester.