Alternative Breaks Information

 Alternative Breaks Information

In the quest to understand social sciences and human behavior, social justice efforts are inherently important and relevant. Engaging in dialogues about social issues can be a great tool for understanding community and the injustice that exists within it. This can be a tough area to jump into, but it is only becoming more important. If you’ve found yourself looking for a way to work community service and social justice into your life and academic field, Alternative Breaks Spring 2021 Dialogue Program could be for you!

 
Details:
The Alternative Breaks Dialogue Program looks to build a world in which UMD students are empowered learners in community together, taking action toward just causes.
Through deliberative and reflective dialogues addressing global social issues, student participants will exchange and evaluate different ideas and approaches that challenge specific social, political and economic structures of our global community. 

Direct service with a local community partner will demonstrate how students can turn their knowledge into action in safe, responsible, and sustainable ways.
Interested students must be willing to commit 1.5 hours/week for 8 weeks between February 15th, 2021 - April 9th, 2021. 

The experience is free.

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 effectively engage in constructive dialogue

What should I expect?
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.

Engaging in direct service alongside a local community partner. 

Identifying at least one action step to take towards a social issue you are passionate about.

Application Information:
Visit alternativebreaks.umd.edu to sign up starting Monday, December 7th, 2020.
The deadline to apply is Sunday, January 31st, 2021. 
For more information or questions, visit Alternativebreaks.umd.edu or contact us at alternativebreaks@umd.edu