May 2015 - ABSC

Meet Our 2015-2016 Alternative Break Trip Leaders!!

On May 2nd, 2015, we happily welcomed our 2015-2016 Alternative Break Trip Leaders at training day. Training consisted of learning about the active citizen continuum, the 8 components of a quality break trip, and how to create an experience unlike any other for their future participants. Our favorite activity for the day was the banana phones. Each trip leader received a banana and a scenario to act out as if calling an organization or housing site for practice. They were able to see the different reactions and questions that are commonly brought up by organizations they will be trying to reach out to. 

Take a look at some of the pictures from this activity!

Alternative Break Trip Leader Spotlight: 

Sarah O’Rourke 

Junior

Spring Break Trip Leader

Who/what inspires you the most?

            Beyonce :D

But, for real, my peers and mentors here at UT inspire me. Seeing all the great things we, as Volunteers, are doing gives me pride and inspiration daily.

Why did you choose to be an AB trip leader?

I always had a passion for helping others, but I didn’t understand all I could do with that until I discovered the CLS, and specifically Alternative Breaks. I found my home at UT and my life’s passion through the Alt Break program. Although I’ll never be able to give as much to the program, and office, as it has given me, I would like to try. 

What are you most excited for as you start this journey as a trip leader?

I’m excited to get to experience this process again. There are great highs, and sometimes great lows, but it’s an amazing ride!

Hobbies/Favorite Activities:

            I enjoy watching Netflix, Enoing, and going to Jump Jam!

 

Bryan Shrader

Junior 

Fall Break Trip Leader

Who/what inspires you the most?

People that overcome great challenges to succeed really inspire me. My older brother Brad has autism, but he graduated high school and now has a great job. No one expected him to be as successful as he is, but that is why he is so inspiring. Other people that deal with poverty, disabilities, or other hardships inspire me because they never complain, they just do their best with what they have.

Why did you choose to be an AB trip leader?

I chose to be an AB trip leader because I love the AB program. I went on an ASB trip last spring and that inspired me to apply to be a leader. I love the dynamic of these trips because you have students leading students but there is not a hierarchy. The group functions as a family and I love that dynamic. I love serving and meeting others that love to serve, so this is a perfect opportunity for me.

What are you most excited for as you start this journey as a trip leader?

I am most excited about working with my partner to plan a trip that will allow our group to better understand and help the social issue related to our theme. I am excited to plan service and reflection that will allow everyone that goes on our trip to become a better member of society as they learn to serve. I want to lead a trip that inspires students to learn more about social issues and to do everything they can to help those in need.

Hobbies/Favorite Activities: Running, playing intramural sports, attending UT athletic events, watching sports on TV

We are so thrilled to have 7 fall break trips and 6 spring break trips and cannot wait to see what these wonderful students plan!