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 18 - Friday, March 22, 2024. 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. ASB 2024 groups will focus on:
- Educational Justice for LGBT+ Youth (co-led by Madison Brown and Musa Jafri)
- Immigrant Health Justice (co-led by Simone Acquaye and Kina Soberano)
- Improving Life After Prison (co-led by Aidan Hunter and Alberta Ndille)
To apply for a waitlist spot in ASB 2024, complete the application.The Center for Democracy and Civic Life hosts ASB. More information on this program is available below.
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ASB: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is Alternative Spring Break (ASB)?
ASB takes place in March during UMBC’s Spring Break. ASB 2024 will take place from Monday, March 18 - Friday, March 22, 2024. To participate, you must be available to attend the entire program.
Where does ASB take place?
We are planning to host ASB 2024 in-person at the Holiday Inn Express in Linthicum Heights, Maryland. Participants will stay in hotel rooms. Some activities will happen on site, while others will happen in community spaces in Baltimore with partners from local and regional organizations. Round trip bus transportation will be provided.
How much does it cost to participate in ASB?
UMBC covers most of the cost of each participant’s attendance. However, each participant pays a $125, non-refundable contribution toward the program’s cost. Financial assistance is available. If you are selected to participate in ASB 2024, we will send you a form that includes an opportunity to request financial aid. We do not want the $125 contribution to be a barrier to anyone’s participation.
Do I have to be an “involved” student to participate in ASB?
Absolutely not. ASB will be helpful to any student regardless of previous involvement or leadership experience. No prior experience is necessary. We are looking for a diverse group of students committed to developing their social change and civic engagement skills and applying them to create positive change in the local community.
Can I participate in ASB again if I have participated before?
Yes, we welcome previous ASB participants to participate again. However, first-time applicants will be prioritized in the application review process.
How do I apply to participate in ASB?
Applications to participate in ASB 2024 are due on Monday, November 20, 2023 by 11:59 p.m. EST. All undergraduate and graduate students are invited to apply.
Complete the application by clicking this link. All applicants will receive emails in early December letting them know about the status of their applications. For additional information, please contact Ricky Blissett at
rblissett@umbc.edu.
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Are you feeling bored and stressed out by your research? Do you need a break from your endless papers and assignments? Do you want to have some fun and meet new friends?
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