Bear Boots on the Ground – Alternative Spring Break in Mexico


Important Dates

Tentative Travel Dates:  March 23-30, 2025

Interest Meetings: View on Office of Education Abroad event calendar here.

Application and Deposit Deadline: December 1, 2024


Program Description

Get ready for an unforgettable week of service, culture, and adventure in Mexico! This Alternative Spring Break trip takes you to the vibrant cities of Guadalajara and Bahia de Banderas (San Juan de Abajo).

Participants will engage in hands-on service projects that promote sustainable practices, including ecological restoration efforts and initiatives to support development in local communities. You’ll work alongside local organizations to help restore natural habitats and implement more sustainable agricultural practices.

Explore the rich culture of Guadalajara, with its beautiful architecture and dynamic arts scene, before heading to Bahia de Banderas. There, you’ll have the chance to visit the community of San Juan de Abajo, where you’ll learn more about the ongoing “Sustainable San Juan” project and contribute to efforts to improve conditions of the Huichichila river and the surrounding community.

This trip offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact, connect with local communities, and learn about sustainable practices that foster environmental stewardship. Join us for a transformative experience that combines service, culture, and personal growth in the heart of Mexico!

NOTE: Enrollment is limited to 11 participants.

Health and Safety 

Students registering for programs should carefully read through all health and safety information provided during the application process. In addition, students should honestly complete the ‘Health and Safety Form’ so that any health related concerns may be adequately accommodated on study abroad programs.

Participants will be enrolled in comprehensive international insurance for the duration of programming. For information about international insurance coverage: https://uca.edu/globalstudy/health-and-safety/

Students must attend one health and safety meeting prior to departure. Meeting dates will be announced after application deadlines.


Faculty Leaders and Course Offerings

Wendy Holbrook, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs

Dr. Riva Brown, Global Learning Specialist

Dr. Hal Halvorson, Assistant Professor of Biology

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Courses offered with this program:

  • BIOL 4V90: Environmental Sustainability in Mexico (tentative)

Program Cost

Once available, the program cost will be linked here.


Learn Spanish

Practice some Spanish before your trip with our Basic Spanish Translations cheat sheet. Also, check out Mango Languages, a language learning resource free for UCA students.