Spring breaks to remember

Many college students opt to migrate to sandy shores over spring break, partying themselves into stupors they may not remember -- or may not want to. But some students are part of a growing trend to make their spring breaks more meaningful.

At Southeast Missouri State University, 40 students have volunteered to be a part of Alternative Spring Break. This year, some students will travel to Evansville, Ind., to help build Habitat for Humanity houses for victims of a tornado. Others will drive nine hours to the West Virginia coal-mining town of Caretta, population 300, to complete various projects such as insulation installation to barn building. The 40 students and advisers participating in the event are up from 17 last year and six the year before.

These are good ways to spend time. Not only will these spring breaks be emotionally rewarding, students will certainly be able to apply skills and teamwork lessons into their future professions. And spring break will be worth remembering.