By Gustavo Dias Juliani, Staff Writer
Spring break is almost here, and Newman students are preparing for a week of service and recreation.
Some will be participating in group activities. Others will be finding their own fun during the break, which lasts from Sunday through March 22.
Campus Ministry and the Campus Activities Board have announced a couple of opportunities that will allow students to engage with the community and de-stress over the break.
Members of Campus Ministry will be partnering with Habitat for Humanity for its annual spring break service trip to New Mexico. The group is scheduled to depart on Saturday and will return March 18.
Edmund Herzog, university chaplain, said the team chose the location to allow students to explore the culture of Albuquerque and Santa Fe while focusing on community and service. The trip balances manual labor with recreation and spiritual growth.
"We are making meals together and will also enjoy the local cuisine," Herzog said. "Students have an opportunity to go hiking as well as explore the city... Our Airbnb is in a great location with a pool, too, so it'll be a good hangout spot after work."
The daily schedule includes communal meals, Mass, and night prayer Though the trip’s 18 slots are filled, those interested in going can sign up for a waitlist at www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4CAAAE2AA1F5C52-62166704-spring#/
The cost is $250, though Herzog said that scholarships are available for those needing financial support.
For students feeling the weight of mid-semester exams, CAB is introducing a new way to blow off some steam at a rage room event scheduled for 11:30 a.m. March 19 at Let’s Smash, 917 W. Douglas.
Kenzee Keeling, CAB secretary and treasurer, said the event is specifically timed to help students unwind during the break.
"The idea was to give students a fun way to relieve stress after finals," Keeling said. "It gives students a quick and fun way to release stress in a positive way and take a break from school pressure."
Students who participate will find a dedicated space at the venue that’s designed for destruction. Participants will be provided with full safety gear, including coveralls, face shields, and gloves. After suit-up, students will use tools like bats or mallets to smash breakable items in a controlled environment.
The event is free for all Newman students and is sponsored by CAB. Those interested in going can find a signup sheet at the Student Life office at Dugan Library.
Several other students will forgo campus-related activities and coordinate their own excursions. Enrico Belardo, a sophomore and member of the men’s tennis team, is planning a road trip to Texas.
"I’m planning to go to Houston with some friends to do a fun trip," Belardo said. "I just want to enjoy the break before we get back into the second half of the semester."
PHOTO: Courtesy, University Relations
