March 26, 2024 - There was no stopping Marist students over spring break this year! While some basked in the beauty of beaches, others seized the opportunity to broaden their horizons with cultural excursions, immersive attachment programs, and meaningful community service projects.

Discover some of the captivating spring break adventures below.

International Students Visit the United Nations

International students on United Nations excursion in New York City. Photo courtesy of Lesly Garcia, International Student Services Office.

Ten Marist international students visited the United Nations in New York City. The excursion was organized by Director of International Student Services Lesly Garcia. The trip presented the students with a chance to foster deeper connections within the global community and also allowed ample time for exploring the vibrant streets of Manhattan.

“It was a great opportunity to learn something new over Spring break,” said Karina Syrota '26. “At the UN there were so many different nationalities represented and since we are all international students it was interesting to exchange our thoughts and experiences. We got to observe meetings, see how the representatives interacted, and then have free time in New York City afterward.”

Building Houses with Habitat for Humanity in Florida

Students in front of the Habitat for Humanity house they worked on. Photo courtesy of Savanah Pinto ’24.

A group of 14 Marist students traveled to Charlotte County, Florida to participate in the annual Marist College Habitat for Humanity Challenge. The students assisted in building homes after damages done by Hurricane Ian. Students painted walls, put up structures for windows and walls, and secured trusses among other work.

“Throughout the whole Habitat for Humanity trip, even off the job site, we worked as a team,” said Savanah Pinto ’24. “Meeting one of the families who was receiving a home truly showed me what a great impact Habitat for Humanity has. The family we met was so kind, genuine, and excited, and their story moved me to tears. I love knowing I’m making a difference in other people’s lives.”

Spirited Student Supporters at the MAAC Tournament

The Marist College Band led by Dr. Malcolm Jones, Director of Music (front and center). Photo courtesy of Hanna Sharkey ’24.

As the Marist men's and women's basketball teams made their way to the MAAC Championships, they were accompanied by a spirited team of supporters, including fans, cheerleaders, the dance team, and the Marist pep band.

Hanna Sharkey '24, a band member who played at the tournament, said, “When we weren’t playing for the exciting games, we were enjoying time on the beach, on the boardwalk, or in the casinos. My friend and I even played violin and guitar on the boardwalk for pedestrians.”

Students Explore Ireland for Spring Attachment Course: "The Irish Short Story"

A group of students, led by Dr. Dathalinn O'Dea, Visiting Assistant Professor of English with Associate Professor Tommy Zurhellen, traveled to Dublin and Galway, Ireland, on a spring break attachment program to experience firsthand the cultural and historical contexts for the literature they study in class. Students followed in the footsteps of some of Ireland's greatest modern and contemporary writers and visited historic sites, museums, and theaters.

"This year, our short-term program to Ireland was truly 'A Tale of Two Cities' as it allowed students to experience the stark differences between cosmopolitan Dublin and the natural beauty of the wild west coast of Ireland around Galway," said Professor Zurhellen. "The students loved immersing themselves in authentic Irish culture and collaborating with established Irish authors to create a unique learning experience."