CONTACT THE ALT BREAK OFFICE
Interested in applying to lead an Alternative Break program? The timeline to apply to lead a program will be announced soon, and you can fill out our Alt Break Interest Form to receive email updates from our office.
Alternative Break Programs
Current Alternative Breaks
Note: Program information for 2023-2024 will be announced shortly!
The Alternative Break Program is a student-focused initiative that organizes international and domestic immersive learning opportunities with a social justice perspective during Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer breaks. We depend on strong student leaders to envision justice topics that they would like to illustrate and highlight for the campus community, and they are empowered to propose, develop, and implement travel programming with service-learning rooted in solidarity and justice.
Through deliberative and reflective dialogues, direct service, and meaningful education on critical global and domestic social issues, student participants will exchange, evaluate, and take action towards different ideas and approaches that challenge specific social, political, and economic structures. Direct service with community partners will demonstrate how students can turn their learning into action and activism that is community-centered, ethical, and sustainable. Participants will be prepared to engage with the community through pre-departure trainings, discussions, guest speakers, service, and other activities.
Alternative Break Programs are service-learning experiences designed to heighten participants' awareness of critical social issues, enhance their individual growth, and prepare them for lifelong social action.
Interested in applying to lead a future Alternative Break program? The timeline to apply to lead a program will be announced soon!
Interested in applying to be a student participant in a future Alternative Break program? Our 2022-23 programs have passed, but programs will be announced soon! Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, email us, and check this page for upcoming announcements on our 2023-2024 programs!
Questions? Please email us at altbreak@american.edu.
Instagram: Keep up with what's new by following @aualtbreak!
Program Costs & Travel Grants
Program costs include group airfare, food, lodging, and all activities, including cultural visits. Not included are visa and immunization costs.
Alternative Break Travel Grants are available. Students can apply for these limited travel grants at the time of application to the program, as part of the same program application form.
More questions? Check out our FAQ page below.
2022-2023 Programs
Building Community Initiative in Autonomy & Sustainable Dev.
Summer Program in San Juan, Ciales, & Adjuntas, Puerto Rico
Learn about the initiatives of grassroots organizations to reclaim Puerto Rico’s power and autonomy while aiding in island reconstruction efforts, infrastructure development, and community empowerment.
Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, & Justice
Spring Program in Austin, TX
Examine the history of period poverty and stigma, abortion rights, contraception methods, and join current efforts to promote sexual health and reproductive rights in Texas.
Building Positive Peace & Sustainable Communities
Spring Program in Honduras
Examine youth empowerment, community-led advocacy, access to clean water, environmental conservation, and climate justice.
Building Bridges through Social Movements & Higher Education
Spring Program in Accra, Ghana
Examine how universities are the hub for social movements in places like the University of Accra and connect with students looking to pursue higher education in the United States.