Alternative Breaks

Each year, East Tennessee State University offers student led and developed service breaks to locations in the United States. Each Alternative Break Experience typically consists of 8 student participants, two student co-leaders and a faculty or staff-learning partner. Most breaks take place during the spring break period. However, we are hoping to offer this opportunity during various ETSU academic breaks (Fall, Winter, Summer) in the future. While working with multiple community service partners,  East Tennessee State University's Alternative Break Program trains and immerses students in a purposeful service experience designed to connect fellow Buccaneer students and community members while enhancing personal growth, mutual awareness and life-long learning.

ETSU’s Alternative Break Program Vision

To become a campus of active citizens who are dedicated to the pursuit of social justice and committed to positive, sustainable change.

Alternative Breaks offer unique opportunities for students to engage in strong, direct service and experiential learning during their fall, spring, or summer breaks from school. Within their teams, participants engage in weekend or weeklong projects as they learn about critical social issues facing various local and national communities.  

ETSU Alternative Breaks seeks to use the service- learning philosophy as a springboard into lifelong active citizenship...where the community becomes a priority in an individual’s values and life choices.

ETSU’s Alternative Break Program Mission

ETSU’s Alternative Break Program exists to educate students on social justice, to engage students in direct service opportunities, and to empower students in making informed decisions and promoting life-long social activism.

If you have any questions or would like to become a member of Alternative Breaks, please contact altbreaks@etsu.edu.