Instead of partying in vacation hot spots such as Cancun, some students have plans for sharing their cultures and skills during spring break.

One group of students is rolling up their sleeves for construction, while another group is educating students about their countries.

Student volunteers and members of the International Friendship Fair Program of Ames-ISU YWCA will be making presentations about culture in four area elementary schools during spring break.

Judy Dolphin, executive director of Ames-ISU YWCA, said 21 students are involved, and they come from 15 different countries and religions.

Kegi Ojelade, senior in elementary education, will be participating again in the International Friendship Fair, which will be doing presentations in Polk County, Alden, Boxholm and Webster City.

“From past experience, I expect to have a lot of fun and learn something new from the students,” said Ojelade, a Nigerian native. “It is an interactive learning experience.”

Ojelade said the students ask many questions, such as what people eat in Nigeria. It is the job of the presenters to educate them in these cultural areas.

The presenters do not have formal training prior to their demonstrations. Most of the information is taken from personal experiences through living in other countries and cultures. Participants said they hope the program helps break down the walls of stereotypes.

“I want the students to learn that Africa is not just about elephants and jungles. It is full of a large variety of things,” Ojelade said. He said hearing the “wow” from the astonished crowd adds to the sense of accomplishment.

Another group from the University Lutheran Congregation, 2126 Gable Lane, will be venturing far away from Iowa State to help others.

Sarah Wey, freshman in animal science, will be traveling with the group for the church’s annual trip to attend work camps during spring break.

“We will be going to West Virginia to help people rebuild houses who can’t afford to,” Wey said.

Fritz Wehrenberg, campus pastor at University Lutheran, said the church started organizing the trip to the Appalachians in November. Since then, the numbers of participants has grown from three to 21 students.

The cost is $200 for each student, half of which is covered by contributions, and it goes toward room and board, transportation and materials.

“The cost is so low because we sleep on the church floors while we are down there,” Wehrenberg said.

He said the participants gain experience with different cultures within the United States as well as working with tools and home repair.

The work is not done from scratch. The projects the students will be helping with are additions or repairs to already existing neighborhoods.

“The students can talk with and listen to the people of the Appalachians and learn about poverty in America,” Wehrenberg said.

He has participated in work camps for nine years now, and it is his first year at Iowa State. He said anyone who is interested is welcome to join for next year.