Structure of Program

The Office of Community-Engaged Learning (with consultations from the Office of Diversity Education) is in charge of ensuring that SU Breakaway is achieving its fullest potential.

The Student Director position is filled by a student that usually has participated in SU Breakaway in the past and has served as a Site Leader. They train and work with Site Leaders on developing their leadership, time management, and project management skills. Throughout the school year, they help manage educational events and advertise the SU Breakaway program.

Site Leaders are usually filled by recent participants of SU Breakaway. They are responsible for finding and developing relationships with community partners and conduct research for pre-education and re-orientation programming. During the experience, they help create brave spaces for intercultural learning and reflection while shaping positive group dynamics.

Learning Partners are either SU faculty or staff members and assist Site Leaders in planning the logistical aspects of the experience, such as meals, transportation, and risk management.

Student Leadership Roles

The SU Breakaway student positions offer an opportunity for students to develop thier leadership, team building, and facilitation skills by working with other student leaders, the Coordinator of Community-Engaged Learning, the Staff Advisers, and community partners. These are leadership positions focused on professional development, and we expect our Student Director and Site Leaders to commit appropriate time, energy, and passion towards SU Breakaway.

Qualifications

• Current enrolled student in good standing

• Knowledge and passion for social issues and social change

• Highly self-motivated and strong organizational skills (including the ability to meet deadlines)

• Ability to lead a group of peers by creating a comfortable, safe, and inclusive environment

• Ability to work independently and with groups

Once hired, students have the opportunity to attend the Alternative Break Citizenship Schools during the summer. The highly regarded Alternative Break Citizenship schools is Break Away's signature experiential leadership training sessions that combine interactive best practice workshops and activities with an intensive 6-day alternative break experience. Break Away offers four national trainings throughout the summer (June and July), with the locations and issues advertised and registration opened in mid-March. This experience will help equip students to become knowledgeable about alternative breaks while networking with other alternative breakers that have years of experience or are just new to the program.