MIDDLETOWN, Pa. — For some Penn State Harrisburg students, spring break meant doing some light construction work in Cleveland, Ohio; constructing outdoor learning space and teaching leadership skills at a school in the Dominican Republic; and learning to tend crops at a sustainable farm in Costa Rica.
Alternative spring break trips, organized through the Office of Student Engagement, offer students a chance to learn about social issues while also participating in hands-on service work. This year, Penn State Harrisburg students, alongside faculty and staff advisers, attended alternative spring break trips in three locations: the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Cleveland, Ohio.
Costa Rica
On a trip to Costa Rica, coordinated by the college Latino Club, students learned about caring for animals at a wildlife rehabilitation and conservation reserve, and helped at a sustainable family farm, where they learned about crops, farm systems and the family’s cheese business.
They also spent a day in Bosque Eterno de los Ninos, a cloud forest, where they completed trail maintenance, cleaning and other small construction projects. A guide provided information on the forest and its future development.
In addition to working at the various locations, the students were able to experience whitewater rafting and ziplining.
Computer science major Maliha Doria said every activity was amazing, whether the group was cleaning trails in the rainforest or learning about local wildlife conservation.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to not only contribute to these important initiatives but also to gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystems and the impact of our actions on the environment,” she said.
Working at the wildlife sanctuary and seeing animals such as spider monkeys and toucans in their natural environment, was eye-opening and educational, she said. She left Costa Rica with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to continue advocating for environmental conservation.
“I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills gained during this trip to make a positive impact in my community and beyond,” she said.
Pepe Renteria, a mechanical engineering major, said he grew a better appreciation for animals and the environment, and learned how laws and culture differ in Costa Rica.
“The trip even showed me concepts from my engineering classes, seeing a cheese factory that is very small and local but was applying many of the engineering practices I was just learning last semester,” he said.
Patricia Aguilera, a faculty adviser on the trip, said a highlight for her was seeing students discuss global environmental issues.
“When we do service in our country, we help people and make a difference in a community,” she said. “But when you are in another country, you compare things — laws, cultures — and see the importance of understanding other people's needs and ways of living. Also, you reflect on your values and the need for global research with a strong ethical and multicultural approach.”