Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a six-day immersive learning experience organized by the Center for Democracy and Civic Life. ASB participants explore the systemic and human dimensions of complex social issues in Baltimore. Each small group focuses on a specific topic, but the groups also consider overlaps among their issues. ASB groups work with community partners, elected officials, and scholars to identify pathways to long-term local engagement.
Past ASB groups have explored challenges and solutions relating to housing, access to nutritious food, education, and health care, criminal justice, and a variety of other issues in Baltimore. Applicants can choose to explore these topics or propose new ones.
Each leader works with a co-leader and as a member of a leadership team organized and trained by Center for Democracy and Civic Life staff during weekly meetings in the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. Together the leaders develop plans for a holistic, empowering ASB experience for all participants during the week of UMBC's Spring Break, March 19 - 24, 2023.
The overall time commitment is approximately 100 hours over the course of the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. For specific dates, see the application.
Leaders receive a $1,000 stipend and a zero credit practicum notification (PRAC 096-08) on their transcripts for winter and spring 2023. Leaders also receive a graduation cord to recognize the contributions they have made to the education and growth of their peers. The Shriver Center coordinates PRAC 096-08 and the distribution of graduation cords.
All undergraduate students are invited to apply. Preferred but not required: Applicants will have participated in ASB or a similar multi-day experiential learning program.
This application is due by Monday, April 4, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.
If you have any questions about the application or the process, please email civiclife@umbc.edu. Thanks for applying!