University of Nevada Las Vegas
ER-12: Sustainability Immersive Experience

UNLV offers two unique types of sustainability-focused immersive experiences: Alternative Breaks, which is domestic and civic engagement oriented, and the USAC Study Abroad Consortium, which currently features several international experiences with sustainability emphases.

I. Alternative Breaks

The purpose of Alternative Breaks is to provide students with the opportunity to engage in service and interact with diverse cultures in the United States during university breaks. This is a unique and engaging way for students to make the most of their spring break or any other extended recess from class. Students have opportunities to break out of their comfort zone, learn about other cultures, and do work for others that motivate them to become more engaged members of both their community and the world at large.

In past years, students have helped with disaster relief in New Orleans, worked with the Cherokee Nation in Tennessee, and done environmental restoration in Utah. These are highly impactful experiences for the students who attend. They are able to learn about themselves, another community, contribute through service, and make great friendships.

II. University Studies Abroad Consortium

In 2012, the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) will celebrate its thirtieth year in operation. This inter-institutional collaborative effort is a joint venture within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) playing important roles in the growth, development, and success of various academic programs abroad. Frequently, universities assume competitive positions with respect to peer institutions. However, USAC is clearly a case where the collaborative spirit prevails.

Although UNLV, through USAC, offers numerous programs, there are several current offerings which fall under the social, environmental, and economic categories of sustainability:

1) Bilbao, Spain
International Business & Renewable Energy

2) Heredia, Puntarenas, and San Ramón Programs, Costa Rica
Ecology & Biology/Biodiversity

3) Bangalore, India
Business, Sociology, Service Learning and Indian Cultural Studies

4) Accra, Ghana
Service Learning, Social Service Delivery, and African Studies

The Office of International Programs at UNLV encourages students and faculty to explore the various and multidisciplinary programs at their disposal to diversify the academic experience.

Link for Alternative Breaks: http://getinvolved.unlv.edu/leadership/alternative-breaks.html