DUBOIS, Pa. — A group of 11 Penn State DuBois students, alongside a group of Penn State Altoona students, chose to spend spring break rooted in service, learning and cultural immersion.
Accompanied by Penn State DuBois staff members Alaina Shaffer and Holli Lashinsky and Penn State Altoona staff members Dorothee Hendoux-Goodman and Victoria Hesser, the students traveled to Puerto Rico as part of an Alternative Spring Break experience focused on giving back to local communities while gaining hands-on experience in environmental and community-based initiatives.
Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of service projects across the island, each offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Their work included trail maintenance in El Yunque National Forest, one of the few tropical rainforests in the U.S. National Forest System, where students helped preserve natural pathways for future visitors.
The group also supported an equine therapy farm through cleanup efforts, contributing to a space that provides therapeutic services to individuals in the community. In partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), students took part in a beach monitoring project, helping collect valuable environmental data.
Additional projects focused on forest and ecological restoration, with an emphasis on Puerto Rico’s coral reef ecosystems, as well as outdoor maintenance work at the Boys & Girls Club of Puerto Rico, helping to enhance a space that serves local youth.
Beyond their service work, students also had the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and culture of Puerto Rico. Highlights of the trip included snorkeling excursions where students encountered sea turtles, a bioluminescent kayak tour, and time spent exploring the historic streets of Old San Juan.
According to the organizers, the Alternative Spring Break trip provided students with more than just travel experience; it offered a chance to step outside their comfort zones, engage with new environments, and contribute to meaningful causes. Experiences like these reflect Penn State DuBois’ commitment to fostering student engagement, global awareness, and service-based learning, empowering students to make a difference both on campus and beyond.