Student Spotlight: Brittany Urban

CLOCK PHOTO/TINA SERVAES

Brittany Urban is a junior here at Plymouth State University. She majors in Marketing with a focus on Integrated Marketing Communication. This past spring break she visited the Dominican Republic, not because she wanted to relax on a beach, rather, she and 11 others helped build a community center. Exploring the Dominican Republic is a class that any student can take as PSU the semesters it is offered. Brittany decided to take the course because she was interested in experiencing adventure, and giving back to a community in need.

Urban and her classmates were there the week of Spring Break. The course is affiliated with the Batey Foundation: a nonprofit organization that helps children and families in the Dominican Republic. It was a life changing experience for her. “One day we went around Naranjo and passed out cold medicine to different families around the community. The way their faces lit up are memories that l’ll be eternally grateful for,” said Brittany.

Before she left for the Dominican she went shopping for baby clothes and school supplies that she could offer those in need. She brought some of her own shirts to give to the children as well. “I’m incredibly happy that I chose to spend my spring break this way. Even though I could’ve spent the week catching up on school work or watching Netflix, it was well worth the time and money” said Urban. She was very touched when she saw a little boy wearing the clothes she had brought.

Coming home was tough for Urban because of all her experiences and friends she made. According to Urban, travelling to places such as the Dominican Republic opens your eyes to the smallest things. “You have a whole different outlook when you’re there. I know people realize that it’s not the small town of Plymouth, but you never fully understand until you actually experience it,” said Urban. “Most students at PSU are worried which iPhone they’re getting next, while the children in the Dominican are living in horrible conditions without a choice.” There’s an alumni trip in January 2016 and Urban said she would love the opportunity to serve again.