The Service Immersion Program (SIP) offers students the chance to engage in meaningful service experiences that promote global understanding and cultural awareness. Modeled after BreakAway’s approach to community engagement, SIP combines learning, service, and reflection to create an immersive experience that challenges participants to think critically about social issues. Each trip is staff-supported and student-led, with dedicated Experience Leaders and Staff Advisors guiding small groups of students through these impactful journeys. 

Whether you’re looking to develop your leadership abilities or immerse yourself in service, Temple’s Leadership and Service Programs are designed to help you grow, connect, and make a difference. 

Please contact Tynecia Wilson, Program Coordinator for Leadership and Service, with any questions.

Participant Application Process

SIP Experiences will take place during Spring Break, March 2 – March 8, 2025.

1. Upon application review, students will be selected to join staff and student Experience Leaders for a brief interview.
2. Teams will meet on a weekly basis in the 6 weeks prior to travel to build an intentional learning community, provide context for the travel location and the social justice topic, develop an increased sense of self-awareness, and to cover logistical details.
3. Each participant will pay a $400 program fee, depending on location, which will go towards the cost of most meals, transportation, program, and health & safety supplies.

Experience Leaders & Staff Advisors

Service Immersion Program Experience Leaders are eligible to earn 1 credit for their peer mentor and SIP training course. The course will meet in-person and allow for the opportunity for co-leaders to build relationships within a cohort learning experience, develop invaluable facilitation, mentorship and management skills, learn with intention about the root causes of social issues and gain experience in building assets-based community partnerships. This course will prepare SIP Experience Leaders to take an active role in guiding their participants through the 6 weeks of pre-departure learning, the travel experience, and the next steps upon their return.

Give to SIP

Donations to the Service Immersion Program help defray the costs for participants. SIP participants will also do their part with team and individual fundraiser projects.

To make a gift online

1. Visit www.giving.temple.edu. Click “Give Now” in the top right corner.   
2. Under “Designations,” choose School/College/Center/Other: Click here to see a full list of areas to support.
3. Choose "Service Immersion Program" from the list of funds (third item on the left under the heading Temple University). 
4. Go to the drop down option next to “My gift is a Tribute” and select “In honor of”. Place the name of the student in whose name you would like to make your gift in the text box below. 
5. Follow the steps to complete payment.

To make a gift via mail

1. Make check or money order payable to Temple University.
2. Gifts can be mailed to the address: Service Immersion Program, c/o Student Activities, 1755 N. 13th St., Suite 219M, Philadelphia, PA 19122. Please include the name of the student you would like to support with your gift.