Ripon College Days

This year students have a chance to get away from the typical spring break locales.

The alternative spring break trip will take place in New York City through the GMHC organization, a group formed in 1981 to provide care to New Yorkers with AIDS.

"Students participating will work with HIV/AIDS patients in preparing meals, working with AIDS Walk NYC and miscellaneous painting and repair projects at HIV/AIDS resource center sites," says Josh De War, director of residence life and the trip's organizer.

Junior Lisa Verwys thinks this will be a good experience for anyone. "I thought [the idea] was really interesting and that it would provide a chance for students to go to a city that they don't normally see," Verwys says.

Other prospective participants share Verwys' sentiments. "I'm excited that I can help people and travel at the same time," says senior Andy Kitslaar.

De War wants the March trip to positively influence those involved. "I hope that it will have a great impact on students that attend. It will offer them the chance to impact a lot of lives in a short period of time," he adds.

The tentative trip schedule allows opportunities for sightseeing. The trip will cost roughly $650 to $700, an estimate which includes room, travel and most meals, with fundraising to defer the costs. De War will only be able to take 10 to 15 students.

As with any college trip, there will be an educational outcome. "A liberal arts education happens both inside and outside the classroom. This will give students an opportunity to serve others while continuing with their own knowledge and developing a better understanding of the world around them," De War says.

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