By Charlotte Duffield ’24, Staff Writer  

The LVC service trip to Northern Ireland over spring break was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both students and faculty.  

The trip was a unique and rewarding experience for all those who participated. Through their involvement with local youth centers, students were able to immerse themselves in a different culture and gain a deeper understanding of peace and reconciliation issues on a global scale. 

The 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement was an important thematic focus for the trip, as students had the opportunity to work towards its celebration and learn about its significance. The agreement was a historic peace treaty between the UK and Ireland aimed at resolving the conflict known as “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland. 

“We were all stretched outside our comfort zone in the best way possible,” Jennifer Leidtka, LVC’s coordinator of service and volunteerism, said.  

Students had the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about political issues in Northern Ireland.  

“Hearing stories from those who have experienced the conflict helped me to become more understanding of the politics within Northern Ireland,” Marina Bitcliff, a first-year political science major, said.  

This service trip was a life-changing experience for many of the students. It allowed them to see the world in new ways and form meaningful connections with people they might not have met otherwise. 

“If any student is thinking of a service trip, just go for it,” Megan Kelly, a first-year speech language pathology major, said.  “I have gotten so much out of this experience.” 

The trip was organized through Amizade, a global service group that connects groups to service opportunities throughout the world. LVC typically runs two or more service trips each year. 

This service trip to Northern Ireland allowed students to see the world in new ways and gain a better understanding of the challenges that various communities face around the world.