Applications for the Newman Catholic Center’s Alternative Spring Break are do in soon for those who want to experience a rewarding adventure during the vacation from courses.

People interested can choose from 17 different places across the country and Mexico to “make life-long friends,” said Holly Walters, coordinator and founder of the program.

Alternative Spring Break is a program put on by the Newman Catholic Center to send college students, faculty and staff around the country and Mexico to engage in community service and experimental learning, Walters said.

“It’s an opportunity for students to meet students that they normally wouldn’t meet in their college careers,” she said.

Students choose from destinations that are only ten hours outside Charleston, except Mexico. They will participate in various community services dealing with HIV AIDS patients, homelessness, hunger, inadequate housing, rural poor, inner city issues, the environment and at risk youth, Walters said.

“It’s an awesome opportunity (for students) to look outside themselves and give back,” she said.

Ellie Clair, junior education major, has been on trips with Alternative Spring Break to Bessemer, Ala. and Kansas City, Miss.

“It gives you a great perspective on your own life,” Clair said. “You come back with a great sense of accomplishment.”

Clair worked at St. Francis and St. Vincent’s with children in the interests of her major.

“It’s a great way to do community service,” she said.

Bridget Matchen, a senior sociology major, went on Alternative Spring Break last year to Kirkland, Ohio. There, Matchen did forest clean-up and preserved marshes for Lake Metro Parks.

“It was very rewarding,” she said. “You feel like you’ve actually done something for your community.”

This year Matchen plans to go to Atlanta, Ga. where she will serve meals to people with AIDS.

“You don’t spend a lot,” she said. “But you get a lot for your money in return.”

The program costs $125, which includes a $25 deposit, and includes transportation, site fees, housing, most meals and a t-shirt.

Applications can be picked up at the Newman Catholic Center in the gathering space across from Andrews and Lawson Hall or students can call 348-0230, Walters said.

Walters said they are accepting applications until Feb. 2.

Six to twelve students will be at each site, along with at least one leader who is a student, faculty, staff or community member, Walters said.

If programs still have availability after Feb. 2, applications will still be accepted until they are filled, Walters said.

“It will be a life-altering spring break,” Walters said.