Join a collaborative student team to design and implement a community-based body image mentoring program for adolescent girls in Northwest Arkansas. This independent study course, Communicating Body Image, combines communication strategies with real-world experience in youth outreach and program facilitation.

This course is face-to-face and offers a flexible one to six credit hours. Students also have the opportunity to earn a Service Learning designation on their transcript. 

Program Structure

Weeks 1-8: Planning Phase 

• Develop engaging activities, mentorship content and positive body image workshops. 

• Work with peers to manage a small budget and organize a completion celebration. 

Weeks 9-16: Implementation Phase 

• Facilitate weekly sessions with the UARK Girls Group at the Fayetteville Public Library. 

• Lead discussions and interactive lessons to promote healthy self-perception. 

Skills & Learning Outcomes: 

• Learn how communication influences self-perception. 

• Evaluate how body-related beliefs and behaviors vary by individual characteristics. 

• Apply communication frameworks to design supportive messaging for youth. 

• Develop public speaking, curriculum design and group facilitation skills. 

• Gain experience in community-engaged education and service delivery. 

Course Materials: 

• More Than a Body: Your Body is an Instrument, Not an Ornament 
  (Textbook and workbook or online program version required) 

Participation Requirements: 

• Background check (required) 

• Mandatory reporter training (required) 

• Commitment to at least five service hours per credit hour 

Course Dates

This course will be taught during the fall 2025 semester, from Aug. 18 to Dec. 4. For course details, contact Angela Mensah, teaching assistant professor, at mensah@uark.edu.