Alternative Breaks
Every year, Tarleton State students have the opportunity to participate in Alternative Breaks. This week-long experience empowers Texans to step outside the classroom, serve others, and make a meaningful impact in communities near and far.
Alternative Breaks Options
Location: San Angelo, Texas
Nonprofit Partner: Donkey Rescue
Lodging: AirBnB
Travel: University Van
Students Selected on trip: 8
This trip will travel by van to San Angelo, Texas, to support animal welfare efforts with a local Donkey Rescue organization. Students will assist with animal care tasks such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, maintenance, and general facility support. Participants will learn about animal rescue operations, ethical animal care, and the role of nonprofits in protecting vulnerable animals. Daily reflections will focus on compassion, service, and community impact. The group will stay together in a shared AirBnB to foster community and collaborative reflection.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN
FAQs
What is Alternative Spring Break?
Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a service-learning experience where Tarleton State University students spend spring break traveling to a community partner site to engage in meaningful service. Rather than a traditional vacation, ASB focuses on community impact, leadership development, reflection, and civic responsibility.
ASB is coordinated through Leadership & Service within Campus Life and supported by the Division of Student Engagement & Success.
How much does it cost?
All ASB trips are fully funded through support and donations provided by the President’s Office and the Division of Student Engagement & Success. This funding covers:
- Transportation
- Lodging
- Program-related expenses
- Most group meals and service materials
Students are not charged a participation or program fee.
*** Students are encouraged to bring money for souvenirs or for snacks that are not provided by the trip***
Where do I apply?
Students must apply through Texan Sync, Tarleton’s official student engagement platform.
The application will include:
- Trip preferences
- Availability confirmation
- Short response questions
- Agreement to program expectations and policies
When does the application open/close?
- Applications Open: January 2, 2026
- Applications Close: February 8, 2026
Late or incomplete applications are not accepted. All deadlines are firm and listed in Texan Sync.
Who can apply?
ASB is open to currently enrolled Tarleton State University students who:
- Submit a complete application on Texan Sync
- Are in good standing with the university
- Have at least 2.5 GPA
- Can attend all required meetings and the full trip
- Agree to follow university policies and conduct expectations
Students from all majors and class years are encouraged to apply.
How are participants selected?
Participants are selected through a holistic review process from professional staff members and Student Trip Leaders that considers:
- Quality and completeness of the application
- Availability for pre-trip meetings and the full trip
- Willingness to engage in service and teamwork
- History of community service and civic engagement work
- Texas Trail Transcript (Co-Curricular Transcript)
- Conduct history and readiness to represent Tarleton
Selection is competitive due to the limited space on each trip.
Can I choose which trip I want to go on?
Yes. Applicants may indicate trip preferences in the Texan Sync application. While preferences are considered, placement is based on overall fit, availability, and trip capacity.
How many students go on each trip?
Each ASB trip includes a small group of students (typically 6–8 participants) to ensure meaningful service, strong group dynamics, and safe travel.
- Van travel procedures and accountability standards
Who leads the trips?
Each trip is led by:
- Professional staff advisor(s) from the Department of Campus Life or the Division of Student Engagement & Success
- Trained student trip leader(s)
Trip leaders and advisors are responsible for logistics, safety, communication with nonprofit partners, and supporting students throughout the experience.
How do we travel?
All ASB trips travel by university or rental vans driven by approved drivers. Travel itineraries, pit stops, and daily schedules are planned in advance to ensure safety and accountability.
Where will we stay?
Lodging varies by trip and may include:
- Camp-style or nonprofit-provided lodging
- Group housing (such as AirBnB-style accommodations)
- Hotel or retreat-style lodging
Lodging details are shared with participants after selection and during pre-trip meetings.
What kind of service work will we be doing?
Service work depends on the nonprofit partner and community needs. Examples include:
- Environmental and trail preservation
- Housing construction and restoration
- Community revitalization projects
- Nonprofit operations and support work
All service activities are supervised by nonprofit partners and Tarleton staff.
What is the daily schedule like?
Most days include:
- Morning preparation and travel to the service site
- Full or half-day service projects
- Group meals and downtime
- Evening reflection and group discussion
Schedules are structured but balanced to allow rest and reflection.
Are meals provided?
Most group meals are planned and covered through the program. Students may be responsible for limited personal meals or snacks depending on the trip. Specific details are shared during pre-trip planning.
What meetings are required before the trip?
Selected participants must attend:
- Mandatory pre-trip meetings
- Safety and travel briefings
- Trip-specific planning sessions
Failure to attend required meetings may result in removal from the trip.
What should I pack?
A detailed packing list is provided after selection. Generally, students should plan for:
- Closed-toe work shoes
- Service-appropriate clothing
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Toiletries and medications
- Reusable water bottle
What about safety and emergencies?
Safety is a top priority. Each trip includes:
- Professional staff supervision
- Established emergency protocols
- Planned access to local medical facilities
- Clear communication and accountability procedures
Students receive emergency and safety information before departure.
What happens if I am selected but can no longer attend?
Students who withdraw after accepting a spot must notify the Leadership & Service area within Campus Life immediately. Late withdrawals may impact future eligibility for programs due to planning and funding commitments.
Will ASB count toward service hours or leadership recognition?
Yes. Participation may count toward:
- Service hour tracking
- Leadership & Service recognition programs
- Co-curricular involvement documentation
TTT & ALE credit details are shared during the program.
Have Further Questions?
Questions should be directed to Lance Zimmerman Department of Campus Life at leadership@tarleton.edu or at 254-968-1876.