Eleven University of Rhode Island students participated in the Habitat for Humanity Collegiate Challenge to build a home for a family of five in Taos, New Mexico, during their spring break. The trip was organised by URI’s Alternative Spring Break program, launched in 2009 and led by URI Service Corps. The group learned how to make adobe, stained doors, sanded drywall, and mixed and poured concrete. Student Abby Wilson, who double majors in biotechnology and cell and molecular biology, said her favorite part was being in an unfamiliar cultural and environmental setting and learning about the community’s culture and life stories. At the end of the trip, the students ended the day by reflecting on their experiences.