While many college students headed to the beach, home or vacation for the week, last week a group from Howard University chose a different path. These incredible college students chose to spend their break serving the youth of Aiken at North Aiken Elementary School.
The visit is part of Howard University's (ASB) Alternative Spring Break program, which brings students to communities across the country to participate in service projects focused on community development and youth wellness. This year marks the second consecutive year that North Aiken has hosted the program.
"Service is deeply rooted in our hearts, so any chance we get to give back, we take it, even if that means giving up our spring break." Said Howard Junior Bryanna Whitehead.
Fellow Howard Junior Zaria Lewis agreed, also noting what volunteering does for her.
"One thing that empowers me is being able to give back to communities outside of my own hometown," said Howard Junior Zaria Lewis. "Being able to serve in places like St. Louis and South Carolina has truly been a blessing."
Throughout the week, the volunteers spent time in classrooms assisting teachers, engaging with students, and offering one-on-one mentorship to encourage and uplift young learners.
"To offer kids insight about college, finding themselves, having confidence, and inspiring the next generation really meant a lot to me," said Howard freshman Julian Merritt. "A lot of these kids are having trouble reading, struggle to speak up, or just feel like they have no one to talk to. Being able to talk with them, hear their stories, joke with them, and support them throughout the week has been really cool."
"Having students from Howard come to our school was a perfect culmination of out Black History Month focus on HBCUs," said Principal Eliza Mechelle Sanders Pee. "Our students got to see in real-time and interact with college students who attend an HBCU."
