Service and Learning Opportunities

Comalapa, Guatemala • Winter Break • December 14-21, 2025 

Climate change is a global challenge that requires local and collective action. During this trip, UC San Diego students will engage in direct service that connects environmental sustainability with community development.

In partnership with Long Way Home, participants will support green building initiatives in Comalapa, Guatemala by constructing classrooms and facilities using eco bricks and reused materials. Students will work alongside local builders and teachers to promote sustainable design, environmental education, and equitable access to learning spaces.

Through this experience, students will gain firsthand insight into how green construction practices reduce waste, create economic opportunity, and empower communities toward self sufficiency. Reflection activities will encourage participants to explore the connections between education, poverty, and sustainability, and to consider how small scale solutions can contribute to global climate resilience.

San Diego, CA • Spring Break • March 23-26, 2026

Food justice is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy, and culturally relevant food. During this trip, UC San Diego students will explore the intersection of sustainability, equity, and community wellness through direct service in local food systems.

In partnership with Golden Eagle Farm and Hukama Farm, participants will engage in regenerative agriculture by planting, harvesting, composting, and caring for the soil. Students will support community food distribution and outreach efforts that strengthen connections between local farms and the people they serve.

Through this experience, participants will learn about the challenges of food insecurity and land access while gaining insight into sustainable farming and cultural food sovereignty. Reflection activities will encourage students to consider how collective action can promote food equity and environmental sustainability within San Diego and beyond.

Maui, HI • Summer Break • June 19-26, 2026

The health of our oceans is vital to the balance of life on Earth. This trip invites UC San Diego students to explore the connection between environmental sustainability, community engagement, and cultural stewardship in the Hawaiian Islands.

In partnership with the Surfrider Foundation Maui and the Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund, participants will engage in hands-on conservation through beach cleanups, marine debris removal, sea turtle monitoring, and reef health surveys. Students will learn from local experts and Native Hawaiian practitioners about sustainable ocean management and traditional ecological knowledge.

Through this immersive experience, participants will deepen their understanding of marine ecosystems, climate change, and cultural approaches to conservation. Reflection activities will inspire students to consider their role in protecting coastal environments and promoting sustainable practices at home and beyond.

Bali, Indonesia • Summer Break • July 2-14, 2026

Health and wellness are deeply connected to culture, community, and access to care. During this trip, UC San Diego students will explore the intersections of traditional healing, modern medicine, and global public health in Bali.

In partnership with the Bali Institute, participants will collaborate with local medical students and public health educators to assist in preventative health checkups and community wellness outreach. Students will facilitate health education workshops focused on exercise, nutrition, and hygiene for local youth while learning from both health professionals and traditional healers.

Through this experience, participants will gain a deeper understanding of global health systems, cultural humility, and the role of social, religious, and environmental factors in shaping health outcomes. Reflection activities will invite students to consider how diverse approaches to wellness can strengthen health equity worldwide.