Alternative Breaks

East Tennessee State University’s Alternative Breaks Program offers student-led, co-curricular service experiences that take students off campus and into communities across the United States. Open to students of all majors, these trips connect Buccaneers with community partners to engage in purposeful service, reflection, and shared learning. Each experience is designed to build community, encourage personal growth, and deepen understanding of social and environmental issues—fostering mutual awareness, active citizenship, and a lifelong commitment to learning and service

2026 Alternative Break Experiences

What to expect on an Alternative Break

Each Alternative Break experience is unique to the communities and partners involved, but all trips include the same core components:

Intimate Team Structure
Each team consists of two student leaders, a learning partner, and a small group of student participants who travel, learn, and serve together. This structure allows for strong team cohesion, personalized support, and meaningful peer-to-peer engagement throughout the experience.

Direct Service (20+ hours)
Students participate in hands-on service projects tailored to the community’s needs, contributing directly to programs and initiatives. This immersive service helps participants develop practical skills while making a tangible impact.

Education and Learning
Teams engage with local organizations, community leaders, and stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental contexts surrounding the trip’s focus area. These learning opportunities provide insight into real-world challenges and approaches to addressing them.

Pre-Orientation
Prior to departure, students participate in sessions designed to build knowledge about the issue area, establish group rapport, and prepare for the week ahead. These sessions help ensure participants are informed, connected, and ready to engage meaningfully with the community.

Reflection
Structured reflection sessions encourage students to ask questions, think critically, and connect the experience to their own lives. Participants examine their roles as learners and contributors, explore ethical and personal implications, and deepen understanding of the communities they serve.

Re-Orientation
After returning, students reconvene to process their experiences, share insights, and consider how to apply what they learned on campus and beyond. This phase encourages continued engagement, civic responsibility, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Who is eligible?

  The ETSU Alternative Breaks program is open to students of all majors and disciplines and who are in good academic standing.
• What is included in the cost of an Alternative Break?

  The individual student cost for an Alternative Break includes travel to and from the destination, all accomodations, meals, needed supplies, and any additional materials required for participation. Any required group outings or experiences are also included in the cost. Shopping, souvenirs, or any other "optional" items are not included and at the expense of the individual student.
• How does financial support work?

  Financial need-based support is available for all Alternative Break experiences. Those needing financial support are encouraged to go ahead and apply for the experience(s) they are interested in. If selected for the experience, additional information will be provided on requesting financial support.
• Can I apply to more than one Alternative Break?

  Yes; There are normally multiple Alternative Breaks taking place each break. If you have an interest in more than one, we welcome you to apply for each.
• How competitive is selection for the experiences?

  Each Alternative Break experience tackles a unique issue in a different location. As such, student interest and competitiveness can vary from exeperience to experience. Across the board, spots are limited and not every applicant will be offered a spot. If not selected, students are welcome and encouraged to reapply again for another break.
• Can I apply if I have been on an Alternative Break before?

  Yes! We welcome students to come back and join us for additional Alternative Break; however, priority will be given to students who have not participated in an Alternative Break or similar Community-Engaged Learning experience before.