Many expressions that define college culture consist of two words. We have "final exams," "beer pong" and the words that are currently on our minds, "Spring Break." It doesn't matter where you're headed, whether it is an exotic beach or the basement couch. It is undeniable that all students enjoy Spring Break.
The whole notion of Spring Break is so ingrained in our heads since those glorious days off every April in elementary school, which were likely spent dying Easter eggs and playing Donkey Kong on Super Nintendo - maybe even Nintendo 64 for the lucky ones. The "Spring Break" concept has been glorified by pop culture, like MTV, which airs specific programs every year showing drunk high school students in Cancun. We are programmed to be excited for this week, whatever it may entail. My experiences are evidence of this: I thoroughly enjoyed my last Spring Break, though it consisted of having my wisdom teeth pulled and not moving from my couch.
Certain destinations are common among students for break. The Caribbean, Cabo and any beach in Florida are particularly popular, as all of these options offer an escape from the catastrophic snow that has ruined our spirits, not to mention our shoes, for the past month. In fact, so many students travel to these beaches that they start to resemble Charlottesville. Going to the main drag in Cabo is allegedly like the Corner with droves of University students. I am happy to say that I look forward to experiencing this tropical version of the University next week.
Another popular choice is Alternative Spring Break. It gives students the chance to visit somewhere new, do charity work and meet new friends along the way. Students can go to exotic locales like Argentina and Costa Rica, as well as closer destinations, such as the Appalachians and the Outer Banks. These trips require students to undergo a highly selective application process, though, one potential disadvantage to the program. This competition, however, seems to pay off. Many strict parents who would otherwise scoff at the idea of Spring Break may be persuaded with the pretense of charity work. ASB is obviously a popular choice, given the vast number of Facebook pictures that show University students with destitute children or sea turtles at these different locations. Plus, who else can actually put a Spring Break activity on their r
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