Meet My Team

Hola mis amigos! :)

New updates to our page! Check it out! 

AB Peru's website has been updated! If you haven't already had the chance, check out our page at abperu2013.wordpress.com. We've included new pictures, short bios about each of the members, and more information about Peru. Get to know members of my team and what we're all about!

One of the reasons why I decided to join Alternative Breaks was for the opportunity to connect and network with UCSD students who were passionate about service. I've been involved with campus organizations here and there, but nothing ever really clicked or resonated with my interests. However, I think Alternative Breaks might be the thing I've been searching for. Joining Alternative Breaks and being a member of such a vibrant community has not only exposed me to various social justice issues, but it has also allowed me to work alongside some of the most passionate and committed students UCSD has to offer.

I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my team members. Most weeks, I meet with a member of my team to have a one-on-one conversation in order to get to know my fellow group members. Every Wednesday night marks our weekly group meetings where we get together and complete the necessary preparations for our service project. Things have been very challenging. However, we all have unique opinions and awesome ideas to contribute. I know that our differences only reflect the diversity or our team and our commitment towards the service project. As the saying goes:

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizen can change the world. Indeed, it is in the only thing that ever has." 

- Margaret Mead 

Meetings with AB Peru 

Each service trip, or AB group, is structured in the same way: there are two student site leaders, a community advisor, and ten student and alumni participants. Our program is definitely student-driven. As a participant, meetings alone take up a lot of time during the week. Our site leaders, Varun and Karina, have devoted so much time and effort to ensure our team has a safe volunteer experience. A special shout out to my site leaders! They are phemonal leaders and have such big hearts toward our service project.

Morning hikes with AB Peru 

Of course, outside of meetings our group also makes time for fun. Just last week, we planned a sunrise hike on the Mount Woodson Trail (or Potato Chip Rock) in Poway. (It looks like a potato chip doesn't it!?) I'm not the fitness-y type... I honestly can't remember the last time I went to the gym. I will say, this hike was definitely a work-out. Anyway, I enjoyed getting to know my team members and getting a healthy workout along the way. Earlier in the quarter we also had a dessert and board game social and a film viewing (which I'll talk more about in another another post).

Just a few more days before my group and I will be heading out... it's all very surreal, but I'm super stoked for the experience ahead. Be sure to check back for new posts leading up to my trip.

Thanks, everyone!


In Service,
Jeanie :)