People|Meet Us
Executive Board (E-Board)
Co-Chairs
Coordinate and direct all the members of the executive board to achieve organizational goals
Theresa Socash
Year: Junior
Majors: International Studies/Psychology
Past Experience: Participant Medford Oregon Environmental Conservation (2010) Site Leader Rural Healthcare Virginia (2011)
Hi! I'm Theresa, I will be a junior and am majoring in International Studies and Psychology. I went on my first alternative break trip my freshman year and was drawn to it because of the emphasis on service and creating social change. I was looking for an outlet and an opportunity to demonstrate a small group of people can make a change in the world, as well as experience social justice issues first hand and make friends that had the same mindset. That year I went to Medford, Oregon for environmental conservation and preservation and my life was changed forever. The organization and people we worked with demonstrated so much passion and love that creating a difference in their community as well as inspiring and empowering others came naturally, and facilitating conversations about social change was easily created during service and reflection..
Meera Nagarsheth
Year:Junior
Major: Microbiology and Immunology
Past Experience: Participant for HIV/AIDS and homelessness in Los Angeles (2010)
Alternative Breaks serves as a platform for change.. It calls students to be agents of social change. Alternative Breaks opens the eyes of thousands of students to social justice issues that are plaguing society and allows them to not only be educated about them, but to also address the root cause of the problem. This allows students to truly gain something from their experiences. Personally, Alternative Breaks and its model for social change are aligned with my beliefs about social justice. I love how the community service is not simply a one-time act, it is always paired with education and reflection so that the issue can be put into a broader context. I was called upon to emerge out of my comfort zone and question my view on the issue to HIV/AIDS from a social perspective. I loved my experience and I hope that other students will feel the same way. Most of all UMAB is a calling because we are all called at various times in our lives to serve others. We must also call on others at important and sometimes inconvenient times in their lives to serve.
Site Leader Education Co-Chairs
Prepare and implement site-specific and general education topics for trip site leaders.
Ryan Schooley
Year: Senior
Major: Psychology
Past Experience: Civil Rights and Youth Empowerment in Last spring was my first experience with UMAB. I went to Selma, Alabama as a site leader and worked with Civil Rights and Youth Empowerment with an organization called Freedom Foundation. UMAB is unique because it is much more than a service program. It allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience by providing educational, service, and reflection components. I decided to get involved on UMAB because I wanted to give back to the community but was impacted in so many ways. UMAB helped me better understand underlying issues that lead to societal problems, helped me learn to critically analyze the world around me, and helped me become an active citizen in the community. I've been able to grow in many ways because of UMAB.Selma Alabama(2010)
Roshni Patel
Year: Junior
Majors: Neurobiology
Past Experience: Participant for neighborhood revitalization in Detroit (2011)
I love Alternative Breaks because it empowers people to act. Before Alternative Breaks I was aware of the issues but I didn't understand the root causes. After having participated in Alternative Breaks I am able to identify issues within the context of a community. This program allows students to reflect on their experiences and to comprehend problems within the context of a community. This newfound perspective has changed my life. Join Alternative Breaks, it's one of the best experiences you will have at UM!
Budget Chair
Manages the overall budget for the program and presents a report to the Student Activity Fee Allocation Committee (SAFAC)
Bessie Nolan
Year: Junior
Major: Psychology/English
Past Experience: Participant for urban reconstruction New Orleans (2010) Urban Farming and Disabled Rights Lynchburg Virginia (2011)
I began participating with UMAB my freshman year when by chance a friend told me to apply, and since I had no other spring break plans, I did and it changed my life outlook. I went to New Orleans, LA to do urban rebuilding and reconstruction after a natural disaster. I loved the trip immensely, not only because it was a cheap, fun and unique spring break experience, but because I learned what it means to be an active citizen and to take responsibility in our community. I met fellow students I might not have met otherwise and was so amazed at the weeklong trip that the next year I became a site leader to Lynchburg, VA to do urban farming with people with disabilities. That spring break experience taught me even more about the amazing people connected with UMAB. I also learned more about specific issues, some of which, including our interactions with people with disabilities, relate to my field of psychology. Furthermore, I learned invaluable information about myself, my community and our capabilities, more than I ever could have learned if I went on a typical spring break trip.
Travel Co-Chairs
Manage the booking of flights and other logistical aspects of trips.
Olivia Haas
Year: Junior
Majors: English, Education
Past Experience: Participant for environmental conservation in Oregon (2010) Immigrant Rights in San Juan Texas 2011
This organization has really opened my eyes to different issues and has made me a more informed citizen. I love that alternative breaks provides opportunities to students to develop a commitment to the community through travel. My experience with UMAB has been incredible and I am so excited to further my involvement this year.
Laurie Phillips
Year: Sophomore
Major: Ecosystem Science and Policy
Past Experience: Mountain top removal and environmental conservationin Harlan, Kentucky (2010)
I applied to UMAB on a whim last October, thinking that it sounded interesting and that I really didn't have anything better to do with my Spring Break anyway. Then I started settling in to the weekly meetings with the 10 other participants going on my trip, which was centered around Mountain Top Removal in Harlan, KY. None of our meetings fully prepared me for the trip though, which was a once in a lifetime experience that I would not trade for anything. I learned to much and became passionate about an issue that, just a year ago, I had barely heard of. UMAB is different from other volunteer organizations because it immerses you in theissues, and teaches you to relate them to things happening in your area. It doesn't just give you something to do for the week; it provides you with the ability to learn about a cause and put your efforts into changing it, both when you're on the trip and once you've returned. It also allows you to connect with people you would never have encountered otherwise. I'm excited to see what this next year holds, because UMAB truly does last a lifetime.
Site Coordinators
Recruit and coordinate with community partners across the country.
Carly Bencivenga
Year: Junior
Majors: Media Management, political science
Past Experiences: LGBTQ Advocacy, Individuals with disabilites in Chicago
I first got involved with UMAB when I participated in a Fall Break 2011 trip for LGBT rights and advocacy. I was able to really step out of my comfort zone, and explore a community that I was previously unfamiliar with. The trip allowed me to see firsthand the social issues that take place in our backyards on a daily basis, and inspired me to continue on a path of serving my community. My spring break trip to Chicago to work with individuals with disabilities was the most transformative week of my life. I was able to grow so much as an individual, bond with a group of strangers, and learn a great deal about the disabled community. At Misericordia Home, my group was able to form lasting relationships with residents with intellectual disabilities, and develop a deep understanding of what their lives consist of on a daily basis. UMAB is unique in that it really allows participants to immerse themselves into the community they are volunteering in and the issue they are working with. There are few experiences that are as impactful as living and breathing an issue for an entire week. UMAB's hands-on service trips provide a life altering experience and an opportunity for students to become agents of social change.
Jasmine Tomita Barber
Year: Sophomore
Major: Biology
Past Experiences: Environmental conservation in Jupiter Florida, Disabled rights in Chicago Illinois
My first UMAB experience was a fall break trip to Jupiter, FL for environmentalism and conservation, it was a great experience and I had the opportunity to work with community leaders to preserve the environment. I also had the privilege to become a spring break site leader for developmental disabilities in Chicago, IL. It was a fantastic and truly a trip that I will never forget. Alternative Breaks is a program like no other, allowing students to become connected and personally involved in service work. UMAB has allowed me to meet a number of amazing individuals and I look forward to working with them this coming year to create an even better alternative break experience!
Recruitment & Reorientation Co-Chairs
Program campus-wide recruitment and reorientation functions.
Courtney Hibbs
Year: Senior
Major: Neuroscience
This organization has helped shape who I am as well as having enjoyable experiences while volunteering, traveling, and building lasting friendships. I want to help give others what this organization has given me. I’m looking forward to yet another wonderful year with UMAB!
Alounso Gilzene
Year: Senior
Major: Classics
Of the many things I have been apart of here at the University I can honestly say U.M. Alternative Breaks has completely enriched my college experience. I went on my first trip during spring semester of my Freshman year, and ever since then I have been passionate about the various issues that still continue to plague society. My first trip opened my eyes to the gravity of the issues, my second trip showed me the steps that we all as individuals could take in order to improve the world. That's what makes the UMAB experience unique, the fact that you are doing more than just participating , or vainly doing service.
Fundraising Co-Chairs
Organize fundraisers and seek corporate sponsorships and grants.
Phillip Chan
Year: Sophomore
Major: Neuroscience
Past Experience: Participant for disabled rights Chicago (2011)
UMAB is a truly one of a kind organization. It not only fosters individuals to commit themselves to service but also learn about society's inequalities and why such service commitments are needed from the more fortunate to the less fortunate. In other words, it is isn't just going to the local soup kitchen and feeding the homeless for 4 hours on a weekend and then leaving. It's sitting down with the people you serve, spending the entire day to talk to them and learn about their lives.
Anastasia Skliros
Year: Junior
Major(s): Biology
Past Experience: Participant for disabled rights Lynchburg Virginia
Last year during the spring I heard about UMAB and decided to experience the adventures it had the offer. It was impressive to hear that this organization could give students the opportunity of exploring new places around the United States, meeting and working with new people and taking on challenges that could educate us. I participated in UMAB Spring Break 2012 and went to Lynchburg, Virginia. I was there to service individuals with physical and mental disabilities through a farm known as Lynchburg Grows. It was truly a life experience that made me realize how many people less fortunate than us need our attention and service. Not only did I learn a lot from the staff I worked with and the people I serviced, but this trip also taught me who I was and who I aspire to become.
Publicity Co Chairs
Coordinates the design of promotional materials.
Maggie Kenny
Year: Senior
Major: Biology
Past Experience: Participant for children’s issues in Florida (2010)
I am from Chicago, Illinois. Being involved in UMAB has made me more aware of the many issues we have in our society. It has educated me on these issues as well as allowed me to make a difference. I was a participant in 2010 for children’s issues in Kissimmee, Florida, and will be a site leader for this year’s fall break.
Matt Hibbs
Year: Sophomore
Majors: Biology, psychology
Past Experience: Participant for rural healthcare in Virginia (2011),
I went to Wise, Virginia to help with Rural Healthcare with UMAB. The trip was amazing, but what makes UMAB so unique is the fact that the people you are with truly care about what they are doing and want to do it. UMAB changed my perspective on how actively involved I am in helping others. Simple actions can make a big difference. UMAB not only helped me actively volunteer while I was in college, but also allowed me to enjoy the presence of other people who enjoy it as much as I do. UMAB taught me valuable lesson not only in healthcare but also gratitude and compassion one can have for their career. I am so glad I chose to join UMAB. I am glad my sister got me involved because it really had an impact on who I am and who I want to be.
Sponsorship Co-Chairs
Organizes involvement with outside sponsors for UMAB
Mary Ann Hernando
Year:Sophomore
Major: Neuroscience/Microbiology
Past Experiences: HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles
As a freshman, I was hesitant to overextend myself with too many responsibilities my first semester of college, but I ultimately made the decision to apply to be a Site Leader and I don't regret it one bit. I served as a Site Leader for the 2012 Alternative Spring Break to Los Angeles, CA to work with HIV/AIDS and homelessness issues. From spending a week living in a homeless shelter to finding myself constantly surrounded by incredible people with so many powerful stories to tell, UMAB pulled me out of my comfort zone in a way that no other organization could. I learned so much about the community we were in, the issues we were working with, the people around me, and even about myself as my group and I went through these awesome new experiences together. UMAB has affected my college experience tremendously. It truly changed the way I view service and giving back to the community, and also introduced me to an amazing group of people I probably would not have met otherwise.
Andrea Jacobo
Year: Junior
Major: Biology
Past Experience: Participant for children’s issues in Florida (2010)
This past year was my first experience with UM Alternative Breaks. I went to Selma, AL and worked with the Freedom Foundation, an organization that works with kids from Selma who live in low socioeconomic communities and experience social injustice everyday. Before going on my trip, I believed that everyone had equal opportunities and that racism was nonexistent. However, my trip to Selma opened my eyes to the hate towards minorities that is prevalent in some communities throughout the United States. By working with the Freedom Foundation, I experienced the love and joy amongst a town full of negativity. My UMAB experience assured me that I want to make a difference even if it is one step at a time.
International Site Coordinator
Coordinates service sites outside of the country.
Kelsey Kearns
Year:
Senior
Major:
International Studies/Political Science
Past Experiences: HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles (2010)
UMAB is unique in the way it has an ability to bring together people from all different walks to life to gain common understanding when working with social issues throughout the country. It has the ability to erase stigmas and stereotypes, and truly change not only the communities we have the honor to work with, but also our community at the U. It has impacted my college experience in that I learned extremely valuable leadership skills while also learning about social issues in a way that exceeds learning within a classroom. Through UMAB I have also met many amazing friends that I may have never met otherwise.
Media Development Chair
Manages the website and social networking platforms, oversees the development of video and images for UMAB.
Lawrence Aung
Year: Junior
Majors: Biology/Biochemistry
Past Experience: Native American Rights in Fonda New York, Rural Healthcare in Wise Virginia
UMAB has been one of the best experiences I've ever had at UM. Alternative Breaks is different because it allows students to truly learn about the underlying causes of issues. I like the fact that UMAB is such an open minded and welcoming community. UMAB also encourages particiapnts to reflect on the service that they perform, to understand problems in a broader context. It's awesome to be surrounded by other students who have a strong desire to change things for the better.
Advisor
Oversees organization to make sure it continues in the appropriate direction.
Andrew D. Wiemer
I earned my B.A. in Business Administration (Management) from Doane College and my M.S. in College Student Personnel Services and Administration from the University of Central Arkansas. Currently I serve as the Director of the Butler Center for Volunteer Service and Leadership Development at the University of Miami. My responsibilities include administrative oversight of 40+ Service and Leadership Organizations, Alternative Break Programs, Service and Leadership Living-Learning Communities, Campus Wide Days of Service, Leadership Retreats and Symposiums, along with engaging students to help support non-profit organizations in the Miami Dade Community and throughout the world.
E-mail: andreww@miami.edu
2013 Spring Break Site Leaders
Click the image below to view an interactive map of our 2012 Alternative Spring Break trips and their site leaders!
Site #1: Once Upon a Time Appalachia: Environmental Advocacy and Cherokee Rights
Courtney Hibbs
Year: Senior
Major: Neuroscience
This organization has helped shape who I am as well as having enjoyable experiences while volunteering, traveling, and building lasting friendships. I want to help give others what this organization has given me. I’m looking forward to yet another wonderful year with UMAB!
Alounso Gilzene
Year: Junior
Major: Classics, religious studies
Past Experience: Participant for children’s issues in Virginia (2010)
Hi, my name is Alounso Gilzene. I was born in raised in Miami Gardens, Florida. Things I am involved with on campus include being a Resident Assistant In Pearson Residential College and singing on the Maelstrom (the men’s choir). During the spring semester of my freshman year, I got the opportunity to be a part of UMAB and I went to Lignum, Virginia, in order to work with children’s issues. In all honesty, that trip completely changed my outlook on life, and taught me the things that are really valuable in life. Ever since then I have wanted to get back involved with UMAB and now I have a chance to lead a site. I hope to see someone else have a similarly life-changing experience on their UMAB trip!
Site #2: Racism/Children's Issues: The Freedom Foundation
Jasmine Tomita Barber
Year: Sophomore
Major: Biology
Past Experiences: Environmental conservation in Jupiter Florida, Disabled rights in Chicago Illinois
My first UMAB experience was a fall break trip to Jupiter, FL for environmentalism and conservation, it was a great experience and I had the opportunity to work with community leaders to preserve the environment. I also had the privilege to become a spring break site leader for developmental disabilities in Chicago, IL. It was a fantastic and truly a trip that I will never forget. Alternative Breaks is a program like no other, allowing students to become connected and personally involved in service work. UMAB has allowed me to meet a number of amazing individuals and I look forward to working with them this coming year to create an even better alternative break experience!
Shelby Juarez
Year: Junior
Major: Civil and architectural engineering
Hey, I’m Shelby, a junior from Connecticut. Currently I’m studying civil and architectural engineering. I joined UMAB because I wanted to help facilitate the development of other students by guiding them in their immersion into different complex issues affecting other groups of people. UMAB isn't just a program at UM, it's a community with a shared mindset and love of service.
Site #3: Focus hope: Racism, Housing and Poverty
James Hennessey
Year: Sophomore
Major: Math
Past Experience: Participant for Poverty in Selma Alabama Spring(2011)
I Love UMAB because it isa community built on educating and bringing people together to solve issues both nationally and in the Miami Dade community. We truly learn about the issues at hand, give a week of direct service, then refocus our efforts locally.
Lydia Erdelt
Year: Senior
Major: Industrial engineering
My name is Lydia and I am a senior majoring in industrial engineering. I am looking forward to participating in UMAB this coming spring. These are some of the things that I am most excited about: one, promoting social justice; and two, passing knowledge on to others. Also, I’m looking forward to gaining new friends and experiencing a new exciting adventure with UMAB!
Site #4: Misericordia: Disabilities and Health
Katie Champion
Year: Post-baccalaureate
Major: Pre-medical
Past Experience: Participant for affordable housing in Appalachia (2011)
Not only does UMAB allow students to take initiative in advocating for social justice issues affecting communities both locally and nationally, it also serves as an eye-opening, interpersonal journey students can take to further their knowledge of themselves and build relationships with diverse, interesting individuals. My first experience with UMAB was in the spring of 2011 where I was a participant in the West Virginia trip for affordable housing in Appalachia. I was fortunate to volunteer alongside a great group of students as well as people from our partner program in West Virginia who helped me grow in many ways. UMAB is integral in not only actively participating in issues promoting social change, but also in a deep awareness and understanding of such issues that allow for a beneficial open dialogue between all involved.
The program took me out of my comfort zone at first, but once I allowed myself to become fully engaged in the people, place, and issue I found it to be an extremely rewarding experience - prompting me to want to become further involved as a site leader for this year’s Spring Break trip. I am so excited to be taking the next step with UMAB and can’t wait to continue my active participation in important social issues affecting our communities today.
Coral Millican
Year: Senior
Majors: Psychology, sociology
I was born and raised in Florida, in the Tampa Bay area. I was also raised a Hurricane and have always dreamed of attending the University of Miami. Being a student here has surpassed my every dream and expectation. Since my freshman year I have wanted to participate in Alternative Breaks, and as a senior I finally have the chance.
I am so pumped to have been given the opportunity to be a site leader for spring break. I can’t wait to work with Katie and all of our site’s participants to have an unforgettable experience addressing LGBTQ advocacy: legislation, rights, and people.
Site #5: Trevor Project: LGBTQ and Youth Suicide Prevention
Laurent Augustine
Year: Senior
Major:Biology and English Literature
Past Experiences Aids project Los Angeles 2012
I find that by providing students with an opportunity to take initiative and become active members of their community, UMAB signifies what a society should truly be about: working together to help further crucial causes while ensuring a wealth of happiness and opportunities to all of those in need. My prior experience with UMAB was on my 2012 alternative Spring Break to Los Angeles for HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Through helping APLA (Aids Project Los Angeles) at their headquarters, volunteering at their APLA Food Banks for families of HIV/AIDS positive individuals, and learning about the struggles of homeless individuals, I was able to learn about these struggling sectors of society and the part that we as individuals can play in their progress throughout populations worldwide.
Christina Robinson
Year: Senior
Major: Neuroscience
I got involved with UMAB because it creates a spark in people to care about the betterment of their community as well as the larger world around them through active citizenship. I think people should get involved with UMAB because it will open their eyes to new experiences and perspectives, which will fundamentally change the way they see the world.
Site #6: International Rescue Committee: Refugee Resettlement
Olivia Haas
Year: Junior
Majors: English, Education
Past Experience: Participant for environmental conservation in Oregon (2010) Immigrant Rights in San Juan Texas 2011
This organization has really opened my eyes to different issues and has made me a more informed citizen. I love that alternative breaks provides opportunities to students to develop a commitment to the community through travel. My experience with UMAB has been incredible and I am so excited to further my involvement this year.
Brittany Metzler
Year: Senior
Major: Political science
Minors: German, philosophy
I became interested in UM Alternative Breaks for two reasons: to hone my leadership and people skills and, more importantly, to be exposed to ways of life that I cannot otherwise understand. As a UM student I belong to a particular societal group. This group is one not plagued by hunger or disease or any of the unfortunate states that is a reality. A reality not only for millions of Americans but for most of the world’s citizens as well. As “tomorrow’s leaders” it is important to step out of our contrived bubble and to engage with others who are far from privileged. We should strive to know their troubles intimately and therefore become better able to help them. One week in alternative breaks offers only a glimpse of this. However, a glimpse becomes infinitely valuable when the alternative is to remain blind.
Site #7: Immigration, Border Issues, and U.S.-Latin Am. Relations: La Unión del Pueblo Entero (LUPE)
Andrea Knox
Year: Sophomore
Major: Biology
Past Experience: Participant for children’s issues in Florida (2010)
Being involved in UMAB has made me more aware of the many issues we have in our society. It has educated me on these issues as well as allowed me to make a difference. I was a participant in 2010 for children’s issues in Kissimmee, Florida, and will be a site leader for this year’s fall break.
Ariel Penaranda
Year: Senior
Majors: Motion pictures, psychology
Past Experience:
Site #8: Hiefer International: Poverty and Hunger
Carly Bencivenga
Year: Junior
Majors: Media Management, political science
Past Experiences: LGBTQ Advocacy, Individuals with disabilites in Chicago
I first got involved with UMAB when I participated in a Fall Break 2011 trip for LGBT rights and advocacy. The trip allowed me to see firsthand the social issues that take place in our backyards on a daily basis, and inspired me to continue on a path of serving my community. My spring break trip to Chicago to work with individuals with disabilities was the most transformative week of my life. I was able to grow so much as an individual, bond with a group of strangers, and learn a great deal about the disabled community. UMAB is unique in that it really allows participants to immerse themselves into the community they are volunteering in and the issue they are working with. There are few experiences that are as impactful as living and breathing an issue for an entire week. UMAB's hands-on service trips provide a life altering experience and an opportunity for students to become agents of social change.
Noopur Ghade
Year: Junior
Major: Biology
Minors: Chemistry, music
Past Experience: Participant for immigrant rights in southern Texas (2011)
Hi! My name is Noopur Ghade and I am a junior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry and music. I got involved in UMAB last year when I went on a trip to Texas to work with immigration issues. It turned out to be the best week of my life, which is why I wanted to help put together an experience like that for other people. I love how UMAB empowers you and allows you to learn so much about different issues while making great friendships at the same time. That is why I decided to be a site leader this year. I’m looking forward to the experience, and I am sure it’ll be just as good or better than last year!
Site #9: Kipp Gaston: Education
Bessie Nolan
Year: Sophomore
Major: Psychology
Minors: Art, English
Past Experience: Participant for rebuilding and reconstruction in New Orleans (2011)
I got involved with UMAB last year as a participant on the spring break trip to New Orleans doing rebuilding and reconstruction. I thought I was just going on a cheap trip for the week and maybe hopefully do a little good, but I would soon find out that it was so much more than that. The experience was rewarding and united me with people from the UM community I would otherwise have never met. We were able to encounter the vibrant New Orleans atmosphere and meet a man whose house was destroyed by Katrina five years ago and still needed help fixing it. Through talking with him and with other members of his community, we could tell that we were making an actual difference. Only with UMAB can you have the most interesting and gratifying week of your life!
Robert Hupf
Year: Senior
Majors: Political science, criminology
Past Experience: Participant for LGBTQ rights in Los Angeles (2011), domestic violence prevention in Minneapolis (2009)
I personally got into the program because I love to volunteer and share my time with activist-minded company; the other incentive is that UMAB is a great way for one to see the U.S. and travel for cheap, a legit hands-on experience that takes you places.
I’ve done Alternative Breaks for the past two spring breaks and I’ve had great experiences both times. My freshman year, I went to work on domestic violence with the Tubman Family Alliance; it is one thing to hear of the stories and rumors surrounding these victims, quite another to partake in the process of rebuilding their lives. Last spring, I went for LGBT activism, mainly doing political and agenda-setting campaign work for Equality California. For seven days we scoped out the scene on WeHo, canvassed local neighborhoods with celebrities, and in general fought the good fight for marriage equality. I’m looking forward to another great break this year and I’m hoping all of you come out and join me!
Site #10: Southern Alabama Cares: HIV/AIDS and Healthcare Access
Juliana Berhane
Year: Junior
Major: Neuroscience
UM Alternative Breaks is an amazing way for students to learn more about hot button issues affecting people across the nation and work towards a solution. It is a great opportunity to change lives and grow individually as you realize the impact a person can have once he/she gets involved and becomes an active part of the community. UMAB does not last for just that one week; it is a year-long immersion into a life you never knew was possible where good friends are made and knowledge is gained. If done right, this experience can and will last a lifetime. I’m excited to be a site leader and I hope we all have a great time this spring break. Go Canes!
Joshua Lonthair
Year: Junior
Majors: Marine science/biology
2012 Fall Break Site Leaders
Site #1: Everglades Hostel
Environmental Preservation
Anastasia Skliros
Year: Junior
Major(s): Biology
Past Experience: Participant for disabled rights Lynchburg Virginia
Last year during the spring I heard about UMAB and decided to experience the adventures it had the offer. It was impressive to hear that this organization could give students the opportunity of exploring new places around the United States, meeting and working with new people and taking on challenges that could educate us. I participated in UMAB Spring Break 2012 and went to Lynchburg, Virginia. I was there to service individuals with physical and mental disabilities through a farm known as Lynchburg Grows. It was truly a life experience that made me realize how many people less fortunate than us need our attention and service. Not only did I learn a lot from the staff I worked with and the people I serviced, but this trip also taught me who I was and who I aspire to become.
Site #2: Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, immigration
Carly Bencivenga
Year: Junior
Majors: Media Management, political science
Past Experiences: LGBTQ Advocacy, Individuals with disabilites in Chicago
I first got involved with UMAB when I participated in a Fall Break 2011 trip for LGBT rights and advocacy. I was able to really step out of my comfort zone, and explore a community that I was previously unfamiliar with. The trip allowed me to see firsthand the social issues that take place in our backyards on a daily basis, and inspired me to continue on a path of serving my community. My spring break trip to Chicago to work with individuals with disabilities was the most transformative week of my life. I was able to grow so much as an individual, bond with a group of strangers, and learn a great deal about the disabled community. At Misericordia Home, my group was able to form lasting relationships with residents with intellectual disabilities, and develop a deep understanding of what their lives consist of on a daily basis. UMAB is unique in that it really allows participants to immerse themselves into the community they are volunteering in and the issue they are working with. There are few experiences that are as impactful as living and breathing an issue for an entire week. UMAB's hands-on service trips provide a life altering experience and an opportunity for students to become agents of social change.
Shelby Juarez
Year: Junior
Major: Civil and architectural engineering
Hey, I’m Shelby, a junior from Connecticut. Currently I’m studying civil and architectural engineering. I joined UMAB because I wanted to help facilitate the development of other students by guiding them in their immersion into different complex issues affecting other groups of people. UMAB isn't just a program at UM, it's a community with a shared mindset and love of service.
Site #3: International Children's Outreach
Olivia Haas
Year: Junior
Majors: English, Education
Past Experience: Participant for environmental conservation in Oregon (2010) Immigrant Rights in San Juan Texas 2011
This organization has really opened my eyes to different issues and has made me a more informed citizen. I love that alternative breaks provides opportunities to students to develop a commitment to the community through travel. My experience with UMAB has been incredible and I am so excited to further my involvement this year.
Christina Cyprien
Year: Junior
Majors: Health Sciences
Past Experiences: Individuals with disabilites in Chicago
I participated in UMAB spring break trip 2012, when I went to Chicago, IL and did service at a campus called Misercordia for a broad spectrum of individuals with disabilities. I went with intentions to give back to the community, but I came back with so much more. I returned to Miami with a new perspective on individuals with disabilities and was motivated to make a difference. I love UMAB because it has provided me with an experience that will last a lifetime.I've learned the true meaning of active citizenship and also what it takes to make a difference within the community.
Site #4: B.E.S.T Human Trafficking
Julie Berhane
Year: Sophomore
Majors: Neuroscience
Past Experience:Site leader for mountaintop removal and coal mining in Appalachia (2012)
I decided to join alternative breaks last year because it seemed like a great opportunity to volunteer and take advantage of what would have been an uneventful spring break. The time I spent on the trip and in the months leading up to it proved to be a rewarding experience where I not only learned about my specific social justice issue but also how to become a more active member of my community in general. It showed me the importance of becoming aware of what's going on in the world today and putting that knowledge to good use
Vanessa Rayan
Year:
Junior
Major: English/International Studies
Past Experiences: Participant for Immigration Rights in Texas 2012
UMAB is a wonderful organization that provides a means for students to understand what's wrong with the world today. I think that there is no other organization at UM that does community service in such an immersive environment.