Thank you for your interest in USD's AWOL Alternative Break program. Please read the application information and expectations before applying.
Application Process:The AWOL program may have more applicants than spots available. The written application is very important as it is used to place applicants in available spots. The AWOL Board aims to create a diverse mix of participants (academic year, discipline area, experience level, etc.), as well as provide the maximum number of people an opportunity to participate.
Successful applicants demonstrate in their application a willingness to learn, contribute to the group, be flexible, and embrace new opportunities. Successful applicants show commitment to the program requirements and values of the organization. Applicants that have completed an application will be invited for a brief placement meeting so that we can get to know you a little better and you can ask questions about the program.
After the written application and meeting cycle closes, each application is reviewed. Generally within 3-5 days, you will be contacted about your status. You will either be placed in a group and asked to accept or decline your spot, or placed on an alternate (on a waitlist). If you decline your spot because you were not placed in your primary choice, you may opt to be added to a waitlist for another group. Alternates will be contacted as spots become available. If you are not placed in one of your top choices, this is not a reflection of your ability to be a great member of that team, just a consequence of a limited number of spots and our overall goal to create the most well-rounded team.
Only complete applications will be considered. You will be asked to discuss why you are interested in the AWOL's alternative break program, prior community engagement experience, and future goals. It is recommended that you complete the application when you have ample time to answer the questions.
Expectations:Alternative breaks involve time and commitment. Your team will have five
mandatory one-hour pre-departure meetings to learn about the social issue and conduct team-building activities. Each student is also expected to attend the AWOL Alternative Break kickoff event in October and a reorientation event after the break. Each team member will also be expected to contribute to fundraising that goes back to the individual as well as to AWOL's scholarship fund to
make this opportunity accessible to a wider population.
During break, students are committing to a week of community engagement that generally includes 30-40 hours of volunteer and learning activities. You will be engaged in learning opportunities and daily group reflections related to the experience. Team members are expected to participate in all planned activities as a group. There will be some downtime during the week, but there is no scheduled free time during which students would be permitted to leave and do other activities on their own.
Finally, Alternative Breaks are drug and alcohol-free. Students are required to agree to this policy.
