Office of Student Life
Leadership and Community Engagement

Community Engagement Student Cohorts: Buck-I-SERV and Pay It Forward

Members of Student Life Leadership and Community Engagement cohorts are provided with opportunities to plan ethical and responsible service experiences, develop as leaders and form meaningful relationships with peers who are committed to giving back to our community. Joining a Student Life cohort is a great way to make an impact on The Ohio State University. Currently, Leadership and Community Engagement offers cohort-based opportunities through Pay It Forward and Buck-I-SERV.

The Pay it Forward and Buck-I-SERV cohorts are now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Applications to join the Pay it Forward and Buck-I-SERV cohorts are due at 11:59 p.m. on February 7. Please see below for application links and more detailed information about each cohort. If students are interested in applying for both cohorts, two seperate applications must be completed.

Pay It Forward

Pay It Forward is a student cohort within the Office of Student Life, made up of 22 students on 6 different committees. Everyone has their own unique job to help fulfill the following mission, vision, and goals.

Pay It Forward provides Ohio State students with regular, easily-accessible service opportunities on campus and in the Columbus community. Working to help students pursue their passions within service, Pay It Forward educates and exposes students to avenues of civic engagement in a variety of areas. Fueled by hope and positivity, Pay It Forward allows students to match a personal cause to promote change within the community.

Buck-I-SERV Board

The Buck-I-SERV Board serves to support one of the largest week-long alternative break programs in the nation. Each year, the Buck-I-SERV Board, composed of approximately 15-20 undergraduate students, assists in the coordination, planning and delivery of alternative break trips at over 30 service sites located in different regions around the world. Additionally, the Board facilitates all trainings and events for the Buck-I-SERV community including leader trainings, Kick-Off and Welcome Back events.

Buck-I-SERV relies heavily on the commitment and passion of the Board to help in the planning stages and implementation of all Buck-I-SERV experiences. Students who are interested in holding a position should be committed to learning more about service, community engagement, relationship building, leadership, social justice, event planning and mentorship.