Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is a five-day immersive learning experience in which UMBC undergraduate and graduate students explore the systemic and human dimensions of complex social issues in Baltimore. Participants build connections with local leaders, organizations, and policy makers and develop a sophisticated understanding of available resources and challenges. The program helps participants identify pathways to long-term community engagement. 

This year’s ASB program will take place from Monday, March 17 - Friday, March 21, 2025. ASB participants spend much of the program in small groups (co-led by undergraduate students trained by the Center for Democracy and Civic Life) focused on exploring a specific topic in depth. Previous ASB experiences focused on topics ranging from immigrant health justice, educational justice for LGBT+ youth, disability justice, and improving life after prison.

Applications for ASB 2025 will open in October 2024. Sign up to be notified when we release the application.