Alternative Spring Break
FAQ's

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Alternative Breaks Homepage

When do I apply to participate in ASB?
Applications for Alternative Spring Break are available on the APPLES website in early October . The application deadline is late October.  When turning in your application to the APPLES office, please include on hard copy for each trip (4 copies).

When are the applicant interviews for ASB?
ASB applicant interviews are in early November.

When will I find out if I have been selected for an ASB trip?
ASB participants are notified of their acceptance in mid November.

Where are the ASB trip destinations?
ASB participants in past years have traveled to Atlanta, Tennessee, Wilmington, the Gulf Coast , and Western North Carolina. In 2005, APPLES offered an additional ASB trip to West Virginia where participants restored two African-American churches damaged by flooding and arson , and this is now the "civil rights" focused trip.

When is the ASB trip?
 Trips begin the on the Friday before break in the afternoon when instruction ends and run through either the Saturday or the Sunday before instruction resumes, depending on the trip.  If the trip returns on Saturday, APPLES will cover housing on Saturday night for any participant who requires it.

How many students are selected for each ASB trip?
Each ASB trip has two student leaders and 11-12 participants.

Who are the leaders of the ASB trips?
APPLES selects two students based on their experience with ASB, as well as their leadership qualities.

Do we drive our personal vehicles on this trip?
No. APPLES secures University vans for all of the ASB trips. The student leaders also serve as van drivers.

How much does the ASB trip cost?
A $50 participation fee is required at the beginning of the spring
semester, and participants are responsible for some minimal extras
(including meals on the drive to and from the trip location), but APPLES covers the bulk of housing, food, supplies, and transportation expenses during the trip.

Do I receive academic credit for participating in ASB?
Yes, the Alternative Spring Break Program includes a one-credit hour, pass/fail course in which students examine theories behind community service as well as specific issues relative to the communities where they volunteer.  The ninety minute, once-a-week class is on a different day and/or different time for each trip dependant on the schedules of the co-leaders.  The specific day and time will be announced during participant selection.

What if I am studying abroad?
If you are studying abroad over the fall semester prior to the spring break trip, but will be at UNC during the spring semester, you are still eligible to apply for an ASB trip.  E-mail your application to the ASB chair or co-chairs (listed on the application cover sheet) by the deadline.  Your interview will be conducted either electronically or by telephone.

What if I have already participated in an ASB or AFB trip?
ASB gives first priority to applicants who have not been on an alternative break trip, fall or spring.  Although you are welcome to apply for an ASB or AFB trip even if you have already been a participant, we strongly encourage you to apply for a leadership role if you are interested in continuing your APPLES alternative trip experience.

To obtain contact information for the current ASB Chair, please refer to the APPLES' Organizers directory.