We spend every weekend and even weekdays partying here at JMU. One week without partying won’t kill you! Most of us have our spring break plans already set, but maybe you’ll change your mind or start to think about next year.

When I see the words “spring break” my mind automatically reads them as “Spraaaang Break” and a vision of partying in Panama City Beach comes along. However, as fun as that may be, you could be doing something even more fun, meaningful, and beneficial to society. Don’t get me wrong, I definitely plan on spending a few breaks partying in tropical places, but not every break. SO… I dare you to think outside the box and do something other than partying for Spring Break.

*Your face as you read this*

I know you are all thinking the same thing… partying is life. But, here’s some alternatives that would be just as fun:

Save your money and spend time with your family whom you rarely see anymore.

Travel and go on adventures to places you have always wanted to visit, but have yet to get the chance to.

Take a road trip!

Go skiing!

Take a hiking/camping trip!

Do some community service.

In case you didn’t already know, JMU has an incredible Alternative Break Program offering all kinds of breaks year-round, in the US and abroad. Not only are there spring break trips, but January, May, Thanksgiving and weekend trips as well. That gives you plenty of time to go on at least one during your college career. As part of the Community Service-Learning Office, these breaks have “the mission to prepare the JMU community to be educated and enlightened citizens committed to positive social change by providing reflective experiential opportunities with diverse community partners.”

This Spring Break I decided I wanted to help others and out of the 25 different breaks offered, I actually chose the “Mystery Break.” When signing up I had no clue as to where we were going or what we were doing. Scary…I know. However, a few weeks ago we found out that we are headed to Chicago, Illinois to assist Heartland Health Outreach with homelessness and chronic illness, focusing on HIV/AIDS. I could not be more excited!

Happy Spring Break to all!