_edited.png)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of ASB?
Alternative Spring Break at Stanford is a service-learning experience. The mission of Alternative Spring Break is to give trip participants the opportunity to examine the dimensions and urgency of social issues through an educational immersion experience. Typically the mandatory 1-unit winter quarter directed-reading course prepares participants to go into the field during spring break. During spring break, participants meet with community members and leaders from organizations in the field with the purpose of enriching their knowledge about their program topic.
How do I apply for an ASB course?
Applications will be released later in the Fall Quarter.
How many ASB trips are there?
For the 2023-24 school year, we are offering 7 Alternative Spring Break courses.
What is the structure of the Winter Quarter course?
During Winter Quarter, trip participants take a specialized course facilitated by the ASB leaders and a faculty advisor. By preparing participants with background knowledge of the individual ASB's relevant issues, the 1-unit discussion-based class enhances and deepens the culminating experience, the week-long service-learning trip.
What will my spring break trip be like?
We are preparing for each trip to be approximately a week long during spring break. This time will be spent talking to community leaders and organizations relevant to the topic of your trip.
How much does ASB cost?
There is no fee for participating in ASB.
Will I be able to observe religious holidays during ASB?
Yes! Students may make arrangements with course leaders (let them know well in advance of the trip) to attend services or to observe a particular religious tradition/practice. In the past, ASB groups have shared their spiritual traditions with each other as a way of appreciating and better understanding each other's backgrounds. Our ASB leaders are open to hearing participants' ideas and needs during the course or conference - religious/spiritual needs are no exception!
Are there any prerequisites for applying to ASB?
No! All Stanford undergraduate students are encouraged to apply; there is no prerequisite of prior public service involvement.
How does the ASB selection process work? Do the leaders choose participants?
Participants are assigned to trips based on a system that maximizes participation.
Can I apply to more than one ASB course? Do I have to fill out a separate application for each?
You may apply to as two programs. To apply, you need to complete the general application questions as well as respond to the ASB-specific question for each trip to which you are applying.
I am a past participant of ASB. Am I eligible to apply again?
Yes, as a past participant we actively welcome and encourage you to apply for another ASB course. However, we ask that you do not apply for the same trip you previously participated in, as we would like to give other students an opportunity to experience it.
My question is not listed. Who do I contact?
If your question is not listed above, email the ASB President, nwtong@stanford.edu