The biggest tips I’ve been told as a freshman in college are to get involved and make those ever-lasting connections. Doing well in classes is what gets you to the finish line, but your outside activities are what makes your college experience. When I heard of alternative break, I had to do it!
what’s Alternative Break?
Alternative break is centered around meaningful service and building connections. Most trips normally take place over spring break. They are hosted by the FSU Center for Leadership & Service and are a great way to build skills and meet new people. To go, you must fill out an application and select issues that are most meaningful to you to be placed on a service trip you would truly enjoy. You don’t find out until later where you are going, which is one of the unique surprises I liked. There is a fee for the trip, but numerous scholarships can help with this if needed.
Camp Boggy Creek
After finding out I would be spending the weekend at Camp Boggy Creek, I began doing a deep dive to discover more about the place and what they do. Camp Boggy Creek is a place for children with serious illnesses and their families to experience camp and have fun. It’s tailored for kids with activities from horseback riding to archery.
This place went above and beyond to create an inviting setting for children. It allowed kids who have faced so much to just let loose and be themselves. Everyone, from the staff to the families, was wonderful and a positive light throughout the trip. If you have the means, I suggest volunteering here for the weekend or throughout the summer.
Trip Overview
Even though my trip was shorter compared to others, it was jam-packed with fun activities and was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. It enabled me to step out of my comfort zone as someone who’s very introverted, especially when meeting new people. Through volunteering, I was a family pal and was able to connect with children and their families at the camp.
From dancing up on stage to eating meals with the campers, this volunteer experience was one of a kind, and I would love to do it all over again. It truly made me reflect and think of things from a new perspective and helped me build a stronger foundation for what I wanted to do in the future.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering through Alternative Break or been on the fence about it, this is your sign to do it. It takes participating in service to another level, and I couldn’t recommend it more. Grab some friends or even go by yourself and take it all in!
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