Tyler Silvers of Travelers Rest using spring break from Clemson University to help others

2012 Mar 16

Instead of spending spring break on a beach somewhere, Tyler Silvers of Travelers Rest is helping others through Clemson University's Alternative Break Program.

The Alternative Break Program is organizing two trips for spring break this year. One group is travel to Pensacola, Fla., to work with Community Collaborations International on ecological restoration projects in areas that were affected by the 2010 Gulf Coast oil disaster. A second group will go to Chavies, Ky., to work with the Appalachia Service Project restoring homes in underprivileged communities.

Silvers is a junior in architecture who is heading to Kentucky with the student group.

"I enjoy helping people, and I feel that this is a worthwhile way to spend my spring break," said Garrett Kent, one of the student leaders of the Alternative Break Program trip to Kentucky. "Last year, I traveled with ABP to Alabama to help after the tornadoes. I learned that many people need help, and if I am able to help them I'm wasting my time if I don't. If I am able to make a positive difference in even one person's life then why shouldn't I?"

Ranked No. 25 among national public universities, Clemson University is a major, land-grant, science- and engineering-oriented research university that maintains a strong commitment to teaching and student success. Clemson is an inclusive, student-centered community characterized by high academic standards, a culture of collaboration, school spirit, and a competitive drive to excel.