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.
For every student, a path.
Guidance and Support
A little direction goes a long way. 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. That's why funding is available to support experiences such as study abroad & away, internships, or other student projects.