During my freshman year of college, I was lucky enough to get involved with an incredible student organization called Alternative Breaks. AB coordinates week-long service trips during winter, spring and summer break. As a new college student, I wanted opportunities to venture out of my comfort zone. I wanted to make new friends and experience new places, and AB was the perfect opportunity to do so!
My Community Cooperation team in Philadelphia.
My first trip was called Community Cooperation. I found myself in the unfamiliar city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. My group and I spent the week exploring the city and volunteering at an after school program.
Hanging with Dan, one of my new friends from Philadelphia.
We worked with kids who were growing up in a neighborhood with high crime rates and few resources. We helped with homework, partook in arts and crafts and played basketball. It was great getting to know the kids! They all had positive energy and a sense of hope that was inspiring. Dan, a second grader who loved to sing and make macaroni necklaces for his “girlfriend,” was one student I connected with a worked with throughout the week. There are many days I wish I could go back to Philadelphia and visit all of the students again!
Relaxing on a frozen beach on the coast of New Jersey.
Last year, I applied to be a site leader. I was overjoyed when I learned I got the position and was given the Relief Efforts trip. During the spring of 2015, my group went to New Jersey to aid people who had lost their homes to Hurricane Sandy. We worked on a variety of houses and learned many new construction and home improvement skills.
Taking on the New York City subway system! I get by with a little help from my friends.
Some amazing friendships were created during the Relief Efforts trip. We were even able to do some traveling! On our free day, we took a train to New York City. We spent the entire day exploring and visiting different locations like Central Park, Time Square and the 9/11 Memorial. It was a fantastic experience!
Info Night #2 is set up like a job fair, so feel free to drop by at any time!
This year I have a new position with AB: the VP of Public Relations and Recruitment. To gain more members, I have been working with the e-board to host a series of Info Night events. Info Night #2 is on Wednesday, October 21 from 8:30pm to 11:00pm in Henry Hall Atrium. All GVSU students are welcome, and I invite all to join us! There will be opportunities to meet all of the site leaders and learn more about each trip. There will also be free food and a ukulele raffle!
I also encourage you to check out AB’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE, which was recently redesigned with WordPress.
Though this isn’t my typical type of blog post about vacations and visiting national parks, AB has given me many amazing travel experiences, and I wanted to take some time to share my stories. I also want to encourage everyone to consider getting involved.
I finished my winter break trip application this morning. Now I’m wondering what new adventure await for me with Alternative Breaks!
Adventure Awaits 
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