Alternative Breaks (AB) are week-long service-learning immersion experiences during the university's Winter, Spring, and Summer breaks that address social issues in local, national, and international communities. Students can lead or participate in the experiences, and there are mentoring opportunities for faculty & staff!
The Alternative Breaks Experience looks to build a world in which UMD students are empowered learners in community together, taking action toward just causes.
Interested students must be willing to commit 1.5 hours/week for 5 weeks leading up to the experience
Experiences are typically $100 - $200, however there are opportunities for fundraising and scholarships
Who should participate?:
Any student that wants to explore community development, civic engagement, local issues, leadership, and service.
Undergraduate and graduate students interested in exploring social issues that include environmental conservations, education, socioeconomic inequality, healthcare, and more.
How will you benefit from participating?:
Connect with a community of peers from across campus and create new friendships.
Develop and practice personal and group leadership skills such as active listening, reflection, critical thinking, and communication.
Learn how to best engage and serve communities.
What should I expect?
Engage in short-term service-learning immersion experiences that address social issues in local, national, and international communities.
Learning and discovering root causes about different social issues through service
Active engagement in personal reflection, listening, small group dialogue, and small group activities.
Thought-provoking questions and dialogue around social issues.
Making connections between social issues and your academic, personal, professional, or civic life.
Identifying at least one action step to take towards a social issue you are passionate about.
Sign Up Information:
Visit alternativebreaks.umd.edu to sign up starting Tuesday, September 5th, 2023.
The deadline to sign up is Wednesday, October 11th, 2023.
For more information or questions, visit alternativebreaks.umd.edu or contact us at alternativebreaks@umd.edu
