Alternative Summer Break

Alternative Breaks is a program where groups of sudents go to places all over the country (and a couple abroad) that allow students to have a learning experience during breaks.  You go into a community with a group of students who are eager to learn about social issues.  You engage in the community through service, but also reflect and give meaning to the service experiences.

It's an awesome opportunity to be with a group of students who have different backgrounds and talking about these difficult issues.  You get to learn from one another and learn about working together towards a common goal. I went on a winter trip last year and made (what I hope) long lasting friendships. I became friends with people that I other wise might not have met.  That's so crazy to think about because I can truly say that I love the girls on my trip (it just so happened to be a rare trip of 16 girls that got along really well with one another).

This is the fifth year that the Alternative Breaks will be sending trips here at the university and the first year that there will be summer trips! Trips this summer will be in Boston, Washington DC/Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Ecuador. Applications to be a trip leader are due this Monday November 23 (having been a trip leader or gone on a trip in the past is not necessary)! 

As a trip leader you help plan the trip.  It's a great chance to learn about organizing and building relationships with community organizations and people. You will have trianing and support along the way, so don't be afraid.

For more information visit the Alternative Breaks website or send an email with question to StampAlternativeBreaks@gmail.com.