We often encourage students to step outside their comfort zones. This March, many Nobles students will do just that—in all senses of the phrase. More than 150 students, faculty and staff will travel around the globe, challenging themselves through service learning, language immersion, cultural exchange, intellectual pursuit and tough physical demands. Whether it is helping to rebuild New Orleans, working with orphaned children in Romania or tutoring in South Africa, these shared experiences allow students to develop an ethic of connectedness and a conviction that individuals can make a difference in the world. (In addition to New Orleans, Romania and South Africa, spring travelers are also going to Cambodia, China and Greece. There are also two athletics teams traveling for pre-season training.)
Travelers have been preparing for their spring break trips for months—learning about the places they'll visit through videos, essays, articles and blogs; raising money for donations and supplies they'll use when they arrive; and getting to know classmates and teachers who will be traveling alongside them. The experience doesn't end with the flight home; students are encouraged to reflect and journal extensively and to share their experiences with the community.
Safe travels to those heading on Nobles trips over the next few weeks. Look for trip photos, blogs and other reflections on www.nobles.edu.