There is nothing more challenging than juggling in the rain. However, the rain did not dent the spirit of 39 University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) students in the first week of January 2016 as they worked tirelessly in the rain installing two solar systems in Madera, California. Eager to learn about the social and environmental implications of solar installation in the Central Valley, UNL students traveled 1,647 miles by bus to Fresno, California. “This is my second time working with GRID Alternatives…I enjoy learning not only about solar installation, but learning about the community impact solar has on Central Valley families” stated Senior, Diana Andablo. As part of University of Nebraska’s Center for Civic Engagement, many students like Diana participate in various service learning projects. Projects are located in different regions of the United States and abroad. “I have really enjoyed my trip to California. It has been great working with your staff and learning more about the community…I also love learning about solar and renewable energy in general” stated Kansas native, Emily Baker.
Program advisor, Dr. Linda Moody explained that service learning trips are driven and implemented by student interest in deeper understanding of how distinct communities operate. “The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a service study ASB program, which allows students to travel during semester breaks to different parts of the United States and abroad. Groups have traveled to Guatemala studying social issues in order to gain deeper knowledge of why certain social issues exist and what community based organizations are doing to create solutions. “UNL Center for Civic Engagement encourages students to connect curricular and co-curricular learning with opportunities to address critical human needs through service, civic-related research, and social change leadership”. “The title of the Fresno focused trip is called “Fields of Prosperity”…where students research sustainability and the environment while serving migrant communities,” stated Dr. Moody.
Although much of the two day installations were gloomy and rainy, the sound of chatter filled garages, used as staging areas during periods of heavy rain, students learned to bend electrical conduit and splice rails while waiting for breaks in the many downpours. Not even the 49 degree weather phased students as they talked about what a wonderful relief it was to break away from Nebraska’s 20 degree winter weather. On the second day of the installations, sunshine finally broke through and gave the students an opportunity to install solar panels without getting drenched. “This is our second time working with GRID Alternatives. We really enjoyed working with you last time, so we wanted to come out again” stated Virginia Calderon. Virginia successfully planned and coordinated the student’s trip. UNL students, you rock! It is an honor to have worked with such exuberant, passionate, and selfless group of individuals! Thank you very much for your time, dedication, and effort. We hope to see you next year. Minus the rain!!
