Alternative Breaks was the first organization that I joined and to this day, it's had one of the biggest impacts not only on my undergraduate self, but on who I am as an individual. From my first trip to Jupiter Florida where I learned about environmental stewardship to my most recent trip to Maryville, Tennessee where I learned about Cherokee rights, Alternative Breaks has been the thing I look forward to during the school year. Amidst all of the stress of the school year, it's what keeps me going. It has introduced me to people who are just as passionate and are just as hungry for a change and has brought me the best friendships. More importantly, through Alternative Breaks, I have learned how important education is in implementing change and the importance of teamwork and direct action and for that, I'm forever grateful to this program.

FB 2016, SB 2016, FB 2017, SB 2017

Alternative Breaks is one of those organizations that operates a lot on word of mouth. As a first-year, I heard words like "enriching" or "identity shift" tossed around to describe UMAB and its effects, but it's hard to believe such high praise until you go. Now, three years later, I can vouch for it all. These trips truly are unforgettable experiences that showed me firsthand how education, advocacy, and service are all inextricably intertwined. Every day, I grew closer with my group, be it through bonding over the struggle to get dirt out from under your fingernails or joking about simple living. And every single trip, I came back reinvigorated and reminded of why I love service-learning, already thinking about what UMAB trip I'll go on next.

SB 2015, FB 2015, SB 2016

UMAB taught me to look at things in a new perspective. I met so many diverse people and learned a lot of valuable skills. It definitely taught me how to step out of my comfort zone and participate in things I normally wouldn't have participated in. It was a very humbling experience altogether!

SB 2017

UMAB has affected me both personally and professionally. I've been personally challenged to step out of my comfort zone and go out of my way to learn about more topics and perspectives. I was both physically and mentally challenged as both a participant and a site leader

FB 2016, SB 2017

UMAB has helped me meet and interact with like-minded people, given me new perspectives on what a community means, and challenged me to step out of my comfort zones. It makes me see how everyone can contribute a bit when there is a tough situation."

FB 2016

My first UMAB trip to Heifer International was a highlight of my freshman year. I had the opportunity to be immersed in service and truly learn about the issue of hunger and sustainability. Pairing service with education really helped to deepen my understanding about the role that I can play. And to top all of that, I had the best group. Every day was filled with new memories and endless laughter. We have so many experiences and inside jokes that we still talk about to this day. I can't wait to go on another trip!!

SB 2017

UMAB helped to reinvigorate my desire to serve the homeless and learn about ways to help those who find themselves in these circumstances, all the while meeting some great people in the process

FB 2016