Selection Process is Now Taking Place for the UM Alternative Spring Break Experience

Selection Process is Now Taking Place for the UM Alternative Spring Break Experience

The deadline for applications has passed and it is time for leaders of the UM Alternative Spring Break Experience to make the decision on who will have a chance to take this unique journey. For the first time in Ole Miss history The McLean Institute is teaming up with Mississippi State and planning a spring break trip for students to give back to the community.  This experience is an opportunity for students to individually grow and become educated about poverty stricken areas while benefiting communities.

This year the selected students will travel to the Mississippi Delta and be accompanied by Albert Nylander, the director of the Mclean Institute as well Americorps members, Ryan Parsons and Erin Mauffray. Ryan Parson is especially looking forward to the trip. 

“I haven’t had much experience actually traveling to the Delta,” said Parsons, an event co-leader. I grew up in Hattiesburg so I’d like to learn more about my state and how I can help.”

The leaders were overwhelmed with the number of submitted applications.  The types of students who have completed applications for this trip show a wide range of demographics.

“We really want a strong international presents,” said Parsons.

The students who have applied to this program include international students from Oman, South Korea, and India, as well as UM students from Croft, Lott, and other organizations on campus.  

The team will be based out of Greenwood and will be spending every night in a local Baptist church.  Everyday, however, they will be traveling to a new place. Several service activities are planned for the trip in hopes of the students to have an appreciation for the role of service at the University.

“We have site visits planned to the Mississippi River, Mississippi Blues Museum, and several important civil rights and agricultural history landmarks,” said Parsons.

Madeline Barker, an applicant of the program thinks this program will be very rewarding.
            “I believe this week long program is set up for success. With the goal of educating students through service multiple lives will be positively influenced,” said Barker.

            The leaders are currently reviewing applications and compiling the team. Students will soon be notified if they are eligible to participate in the program.  Although the deadline for applying to the Spring Break Alternative Experience has already past you can participate in next year’s experience in hopes of leaving a long lasting mark on communities. 

Links: 

http://socanth.olemiss.edu/2013/02/um-alternative-spring-break-experience/ 

http://www.city-data.com/poverty/poverty-Greenwood-Mississippi.html