Question 1

How do I apply for an Alternative Service Break trip?

Accepted Answer

Attend info sessions to learn about the trip for the semester. Apply by clicking the Apply for Alternative Break button at the top of our website page or by visiting the Center for Community Engagement's website.

Question 2

Who is eligible to go on an Alternative Break trip?

Accepted Answer

Currently enrolled University of Southern Mississippi students, both undergraduate and graduate part-time and full-time degree seeking students.

Question 3

Will I miss days of class?

Accepted Answer

At this time, student do NOT miss class for their participation in the Alternative Service Break program.

Question 4

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on the distance and length of time of the trip. Domestic trips cost anywhere from $50 – $500. We are currently working on international trip prices. Trip prices include group airfare, most food, lodging, and all sponsored activities. Not included are visa and immunization costs.

Question 5

What happens if I am not able to go on the trip after I have signed the trip agreement?

Accepted Answer

The Center for Community Engagement does everything possible to keep trips at the lowest cost possible. Part of this process includes securing certain travel logistics early in the process such as flight and lodging accommodations. Usually the biggest cost we are not able to recoup is airfare or Amtrak fees as we purchase the tickets as non-refundable/transferable and so in the event of not being able to travel, the student is still responsible for that cost and then working with the airline to use any credit available on future flights to be used within 1 year of initial purchase of ticket (specific policy and fees may vary depending on airline). For any and all additional costs, it will depend on the date of cancellation and if those costs can be refunded if canceled.

Question 6

How many people go on the trips?

Accepted Answer

10+ participants.

Question 7

What is a site leader?

Accepted Answer

Our Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program enables USM students to advance their understanding of a social issue; to engage communities on this issue through service, social justice, advocacy, and/or public policy; and to learn about the value of the reflection process and connecting with others on a deeper level. The success of each ASB trip depends upon the commitment and preparation of Site Leaders who are responsible for conceptualizing and implementing a high quality program for their peers.
Site leaders must:

• Attend the mandatory Site Leader training sessions
• Make preparations for your trip before the break
• Maintain consistent and positive communication with the lead team, your co-site leader, and your participants
• Assist the ASB Lead Team with participant recruitment and public relations
• Be self-motivated and possess strong organizational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines
• Have the ability to lead a group of peers by creating a comfortable, safe, and inclusive environment
• Engage, plan, and facilitate pre-trip meetings/service with your group participants and staff chaperone(s)
• Commit to alcohol and drug-free policy of ASB

Question 8

How can I be a trip leader?

Accepted Answer

Apply through the general trip application by selecting "yes" on the Site Leader Interest question.

Question 9

How can I become a staff/faculty advisor?

Accepted Answer

Contact the Center for Community Engagement staff to express interest in serving as an advisor at cce@usm.edu or via phone at 601-266-5074.

Question 10

Are the trips safe?

Accepted Answer

Student leaders and faculty advisors work with Center for Community Engagement to create a safe, educational, and service-oriented itinerary and curriculum for the trip. All travel, domestic and international, comes with a level of risk that students should be aware of. Students should research their destination and take all safety precautions necessary.

Question 11

As an international student can I go on an Alternative Break Trip?

Accepted Answer

International students are very welcome to join an Alternative Service Break trip! Talk to the International Services (https://www.usm.edu/international-services)office about travel requirements such as visa regulations.

Question 12

When do the ASB trips take place?

Accepted Answer

Currently, they take place in the Fall & Spring. Trips usually last 7 days for spring break and 4 days for our Fall Break.

Question 13

I am an USM alum. Can I go on a trip after I graduate from Southern Miss?

Accepted Answer

No.... Alternative Break trips are only offered to currently enrolled students.

Question 14

Can students with disabilities go on Alternative Breaks?

Accepted Answer

The Alternative Service Break program makes every effort to ensure that students with disabilities can participate successfully in Alternative Service Break programs. Please be aware that we cannot guarantee that facilities or support services will be available at each location abroad or domestically in the same range and quality as on the University of Southern Mississippi campuses.

Question 15

Can we do fundraising for our trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Participants on trips can solicit funds from individuals or businesses. A great resource to use is the gofundme app.

Question 16

Why are Alternative Service Breaks alcohol free?

Accepted Answer

Alternative Service Breaks were founded as an alternative to the typical spring break experience. Alcohol affects group dynamics, participant safety, the local community, the university, and the national alternative service break student movement. It is not a judgement call on the use of alcohol, but more of a realization that there is much work to be done in the world around us to help tackle many of our social justice issues.

*Please note that in this period of uncertainty and adjustment to our nation's "new normal", upcoming ASB trips are on a TBA basis until the COVID-19 pandemic falls into a decline and USM class schedules return to their regular on-campus format.

- USM Center for Community Engagement Staff