Contact Us

Leadership & Service
206 Bone Student Center
Campus Box 2640
Normal, IL 61790-2640
Phone: (309) 438-8972
TDD (309) 438- 2762
Facsimile: (309) 438-3147

Student Testimonials

Marie Allman, English education major

The most memorable aspect of Alternative Spring Break was how much gratitude and appreciation the residents of the community showed us. On our last day, a man we worked with closely on the trip had tears running down his cheeks as he thanked us for our work. Even when we were at a grocery store, some members of the community slowed their cars down to thank us for our work. Cleaning out the park and grocery store helped show the community that people in America still care about what happened to them are willing to help.

Through this trip, I have realized what is important in life – it is not the material possessions, rather, it is life itself. Helping people is such a fulfilling experience and I cannot wait to participate again next year. 

People, especially those forgotten after Hurricane Katrina, need to know that there are active citizens who care about them and want to make a difference in their lives. Showing compassion to those in need by taking a week out of our lives really makes a difference and invites hope back into their lives. If you’re interested in getting involved with ASB, do it! As a junior, this was my first year participating and I wish I had participated sooner. I met some amazing people on my trip who I know will be a part of my life forever.

 

Matt Simms, accounting major

My team went to Tahlequa, Oklahoma and helped with home maintenance and the elderly in the area. It is because of ASB that I have had opportunities and experiences that I would not have had otherwise.

The most memorable experience for me was seeing a woman we served in tears on the day we were leaving; she was very thankful and happy to have our help. Due to ASB I have changed the way I see the world and increased my understanding of social issues. There are so many reasons why activities like ASB are important. It teaches you to break away from stereotypes and gives you a chance to experience a community outside of your own and do truly valuable work for the community. My advice for other students is to get involved! It is a great experience and you will not regret it.   

Anita Smith, special education major

My sophomore year I returned to the trip as a site facilitator and really enjoyed having that leadership position. It was after that trip that I became a student coordinator of Alternative Spring Break (ASB) and am looking forward to beginning my new position as the student coordinator for the Alternative Winter Break. Being a part of ASB motivated me to work within the DoS and I am currently a student worker in the Student Involvement Center (SIC).

All of the trips that I have been on have led me to challenge myself and learn from new experiences. There is no doubt in my mind that AB (Alternative Break) is the single most influential thing I have done so far in college. My advisors in Leadership & Service are always there to help me when I need them. I really appreciate their help and guidance as I grow with the office.

I have grown personally in so many ways and have learned to be an advocate and representative since my involvement in the DoS. I would definitely advise incoming freshman to get involved with the DoS office. They offer countless programs that challenge students and encourage them to step outside of their comfort zone, which is rare. Since my involvement with the Dean of Students, I have stepped up academically so I could take advantage of these opportunities. Being a part of the Dean of Students Office will greatly benefit your life and college career. I feel at home when I am in Leadership & Service or the Student Involvement Center, and I consider myself very lucky.