North Carolina State University
AC-5: Immersive Experience

The Alternative Spring Break trip focuses on all aspects of sustainability including the environment, society and economy while participants engage in both direct and indirect service. Participants explore sustainability’s impact by visiting EARTH University, one of the globe’s most sustainable universities, as well as experiencing ecotourism and being immersed in local culture. To better understand ecotourism, trip participants engage with local micro-entrepreneurs who are part of People First Tourism’s growing network. A global initiative of NC State, People First Tourism’s mission connects people seeking genuine travel experiences with micro-entrepreneurs interested in earning income from sharing their communities, lives and skills with others. In addition to learning from the network’s existing entrepreneurs, student participants interview potential new entrepreneurs for the network. Students also have the opportunity to experience Costa Rican culture while working on sustainable service projects with Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization that develops international volunteer programs intended to promote cultural awareness and sustainability. Examples of service projects include installing new water pipes to bring clean water to communities, painting schools and community buildings, and installing septic tanks.