Spring break is often a great way to relax after a stressful week of midterms. Some students opted out of rest and relaxation, and dedicated themselves to hard physical labor. A few Habitat for Humanity members commented on what made them decide to spend their spring break volunteering, and the most beneficial aspect of the trip.

Kyle Clemmer ’13, Coopersburg, Pa.: “Just hearing about Katrina, I wanted to go help out. I also wanted to travel down south. I wanted to meet everybody, and the group got along pretty well. Seeing the devastation on television was nothing compared to what it is in reality. It was also beneficial to gain some skill in house building.”

Danielle Settimio ’12, Altoona, Pa.: “I volunteered because I believe in their cause. This trip was completely different than last year. Seeing all the progress being made was really special and there is still a lot to do, so I want to go back again.”

Myriah LaChance ’12, Littleton, Co.: “I decided to go down because service has always a big part of my life and having the trip be free was a big plus. The relationships I formed were important; we did build a house down there, but we got to comeback with a whole new group of friends to hang with.”

Ashley Glinsky ’13, Indiana, Pa.: “I knew that it was an opportunity to go somewhere I’ve never been before, and I could use my free time to help out those who were in need. The most beneficial aspect of the trip was knowing that my spring break had been a rewarding experience. I was part of a group of people willing to give up their time and make a difference. The trip motivated me to do more service for others because there are people in need everywhere we go.

Elizabeth Murphy ’10, Morris Plains, N.J.: “I got heavily involved in Habitat during my freshman year and just fell in love. I’ve gone to Spring Break every year because every year there is a different family who is going to benefit from our hard work. As an upperclassman, the thing I enjoy most about Spring Break is seeing someone hammer their first nail or put on their first piece of siding. Seeing someone else realize how much one person can do is what I value most.

-Erin Kreischer ’13, Juniata Online Journalist