The Morgridge Center for Public Service, in coordination with Letters and Science Career Services, hosted the Spring 2016 Public Service Fair Wednesday at Varsity Hall.
The Public Service Fair is put on each semester for students to explore volunteering options and nonprofit internships and employment opportunities in the Madison area.
“The Public Service Fair introduces ways for students to connect to the Madison community, beyond campus,” said Morgridge Center Assistant Director of Civic Engagement Megan Miller. “Volunteering helps students get a deeper understanding of the community.”
Morgridge Center Special Events intern Carol Silva estimated about 700 students went through the fair this year.
“My college experience has really been completely changed through volunteering,” Silva said. “Community service creates a well-rounded education and you actually learn about the real world, not just what is in textbooks. Volunteering is taking what you learn and applying it to your community, which is a big part of the Wisconsin Experience.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Morgridge Center. Approximately 80 organizations were present at this year's fair, according to Miller.
Sophomore Becca Penn agrees that learning is important, but implementation of the knowledge is more rewarding.
“Sometimes I forget that there is more to Madison than campus. It is nice to get out of the library and explore, while getting to help others,” Penn said. “The Public Service Fair gives students a chance to interact face-to-face with the organizations rather than going on the website and picking something from a list.”
If students missed the Public Service Fair, the Morgridge Center has lists of organizations students can join, as well as other ways to better the Madison community. It also holds events that concern various community issues.
