We believe college should help students find direction. And we know Hampden-Sydney men benefit from learning by doing. Compass is our unique approach to hands-on learning and preparing men to compete for top jobs and graduate programs. How? By helping every student navigate his future through guided access to internships, study abroad, research, service learning, and active classroom experiences.
The Compass program is a graduation requirement. Every student must
- take at least three Compass experiential learning courses from a broad menu of options, and
- one of these Compass experiences must have a significant off-campus component, such as a semester abroad in Spain, a summer internship in New York, or even community service in the local region.
The Compass Experience
Active Classroom Learning
From acting and directorial studios to authentic science labs to courses that recreate key moments in history, these classes give students open-ended problems to solve through hands-on learning and reflection. Faculty guide students to see how course content connects to larger issues beyond the classroom.
Student Research
In these courses, students propose and develop individual or group research projects to complete with faculty supervision. As they work to solve multifaceted, complex, and often interdisciplinary problems, they also explore how their research connects to other coursework and their career aspirations.
Service Learning
Pairing community engagement with academic study, these courses get students to consider not just how to be involved, but why that involvement matters in their lives and in the world. These experiences will help build a life after college that is fulfilling and meaningful.
Study Abroad and Away
Compass courses abroad and in off-campus U.S. locations immerse students in local cultures through guided active engagement with their location and the people who live there. Short and long-term study abroad and away opportunities are available to students.
Internships
Internships allow you to acquire experience in an occupation, profession, or pursuit of interest. Compass Internship courses meet before, during, and after the internship to help students make the most of their experiences, both during their time in the workplace and beyond.
For every student, a path.
Guidance and Support
Each Compass course is led by a trained, committed professor, and the tight-knit Hampden-Sydney community is united in helping you navigate your future and get the most out of college. Advisors offer guidance as you select classes, expert career center staff will help you apply for and secure internships, and alumni may offer mentorship and support—and expert faculty will help you put it all together.
Access and Funding
Every student must complete the Compass program. For qualified students, funding is available to support experiences such as study abroad & away, internships, or other student projects.