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Alternative Spring Break 2009. San Bernardino National Forest, San Bernardino, CA.

 

  Alternative Break FAQ  

 

  • Why should I apply?
    Alternative break is a great opportunity for one to learn and experience, first hand, the social and/or environmental issues facing the community.
    Alterative Break also provides the opportunity for UCI students to mingle with other students at UCI and learn about different campus organizations. (Check out the first hand experiences on the website for comments from past alternative break participants.) 
  • How do I apply? When do applications come out?
    Once application become available you can bring the completed forms to the Center for Service in Action (Student Center G301), unless otherwise noted.  Applications will be made available in fall quarter, for alternative winter break (AWB), and at the beginning of winter quarter, for alternative spring break (ASB).
  • Who can participate in alternative break?
    Students currently enrolled at UC Irvine can participate - undergraduate and graduate students.
  • I've already gone on an alternative break, can I go again?
    Alternative break strives to open opportunities for new participants however, the continual interest of the alternative break alumni is very important.  So, yes!  Apply again! 
  • When is alternative break?
    Alternative Winter Break is the first week of winter break.  
    Alternative Spring Break is the week of spring break.
  • How are each alternative break location chosen?
    Most sites are chosen based on the research done by the alterative break interns. Much of their research comes from contacting multiple organizations. However, if you have a site in mind for one of our programs, please do not hesitate to contact us!
  • What are the requirements to be a participant?
    After turning in an application and going through the interview process, if one is chosen to participate in alternative break they must attend all the classes/seminars (if applicable), be present at all orientations and reorientations, participate in fundraising activities for alternative break, and pay the fee.  Other requirements may come up throughout the year.
  • How will I be traveling throughout an alternative break?
    Groups will travel together throughout the Alternative Break program. Cars are rented through the university and participants that meet the driving requirements for the university serve as volunteer drivers. Public transportation may also be taken to various service sites.
  • What type of housing will be available?
    The lodging experience is also part of the trip. Group participants may not always have a warm and cozy bed to sleep in, but we try our best to accommodate everyone. Sleeping bags are highly recommended. Some housing options may be hostels, tents, and dorm rooms. Wherever the group stays, we emphasize safety and respect.
  • What will I be eating throughout the week?
    All meals are included in the week long program. We advise that students bring a favorite snack or two to share if possible. Allergies, dietary, and medical information is requested from each participants, since all meals are prepared family style.  
  • How much will it cost?
    Our goal is to keep costs down and make the alternative break experience possible for all students interested in participating. Costs include all meals, lodging, and transportation for the week. Applicants may contact Darlene Esparza (adesparz@uci.edu), to inquire more about the cost as well as any challenge regarding payment. Fundraising is also a requirement of the program. Acceptance into the program will require you to participate in at least one service project sponsored by the center and one fundraising activity (unless otherwise noted).
  • Why do I have to pay to volunteer?
    All of what you pay will help to cover the costs of lodging, transportation, food, and housing for the entire duration of your alternative break.  
  • How long is an Alternative Break?
    The duration of each site differs according to the location that you will be going.  Some sites, can only accommodate a group for a few days, while others can accommodate the group for an entire week.
  • How many students participate in a single location?
    The number of students that can participate in one particular site depends on the location that you will be going.  Some locations can only accommodate a few students, while others can accommodate many.  Group sizes thus vary (10-14).
  • How do I become an Alternative Break intern?
    Alternative Break intern applications are made available in the spring quarter of each academic year.  Contact the Center for Service in Action for more information.
  • How can I contact Alternative Break?
    Email: ucirvinealtbreak@gmail.com
    Phone: 949-824-3500
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aidslagrouppic
Alternative Spring Break 2008. AIDS Project, Los Angeles, CA.

 

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