Spring Break Alternatives and Safety
Student Whitney Pafford helps clean a tortoise pen at a wildlife refuge in the Florida Everglades for injured and abandoned wildlife. Pafford participated in one of nine UW–Madison Alternative Spring Break programs. Photo: University Communications
Spring break is fast approaching, and students deserving much-needed time off are ready to have some fun and relaxation. Not all students jet off to the sun-soaked beaches. In fact, most students will be working, going home, visiting friends, or participating in volunteer or service projects.
For students looking to do something especially meaningful during the break, Alternative Breaks, offered through the Wisconsin Union Directorate, may be the answer. This low-cost opportunity allows students to travel to economically, culturally, and environmentally diverse locations across the United States. Students grow as they engage in service-learning activities that change their lives and those of the people they help. For more information, visit the Wisconsin Union Alternative Breaks website: www.union.wisc.edu/wud/altbreaks-about.htm. Students should apply soon: the deadline for applications is February 26.
This year, trips are being planned for Detroit; Kissimmee and Homestead, Florida; New Haven, Connecticut; and more.
If your student is planning to travel, remind him or her about these important safety measures:
- Parents (or other friends or family members) need to be informed about where your student will be vacationing, including departure and return times. Ask that your student call upon arrival and return.
- Your student should carry the minimum amount of cash and credit or bank cards.
- Have an honest conversation with your student about alcohol, if applicable. Recommend that your student learn about the alcohol laws of his or her destination. Encourage responsibility and moderation.
- Remind your student to travel with others, and to stay together — always use the buddy system.
- Lastly, remind your student to remain aware of surroundings and use common sense. Emphasize safety on balconies, being careful about sun exposure and dehydration, locking the hotel room door, and not swimming alone.