Some students don't have any plans for Fall Break. Senior elementary education major Heather Smith lives in Muncie and will work on her days off.
But some students' Fall Break will take them outside the community.
For Student Volunteer Services President Ashley Ford, traveling outside Muncie to volunteer helps give her another perspective on the world.
Students have been going on Alternative Fall Break trips since about 2004, Ford said. Instead of relaxing at home or going on vacation, students go outside the community for service projects.
Eleven students will travel Friday morning to serve at Arcadia Community Center in Louisville, Ky., and will help with repairs at the center and work with the Somali immigrants. Students will help the community center host its cultural fair.
Ford said the community center often sees neglect throughout the year, so the Alternative Fall Break gives students time to make the minor repairs.
She said she feels like an ambassador from Ball State University when going to different communities.
"A trip with a service project is more rewarding than a vacation to Cancun," she said.
Ford said alternative breaks are exciting for her because she enjoys traveling.
"It's always exciting to get out of Indiana," she said.
Students wanted to have a trip, but they want to do service projects during Fall Break at the same time, she said.
Students who participate in the program come away with a sense of self about becoming active members in the global community, Ford said.
"I know it's cheesy, but we walk away with more than we give," she said.
Ford said the Alternative Fall Break trip is open to all students and not just those who are in SVS.
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