Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I find out about more about Alternative Spring Break and International Immersions?
   You may attend one of the optional information sessions for more details.
    
   • Wednesday, Sept. 5, 5:15–5:45 p.m.- Lucas Room, Ragsdale Center
   • Thursday, Sept. 6, noon–12:30 p.m. and 5–5:30 p.m.- Fleck Hall 306
   • Tuesday, Sept. 11, noon–12:30 p.m. and 5–5:30 p.m.- Fleck Hall 306
2. Who can participate?
   All St. Edward's University undergraduate students currently enrolled full time are eligible.
    
3. Do I have to be Catholic to participate?
   No, but we will encourage you to think about the connection between your spirituality and social action in the pre-immersion meetings and during the immersion.
    
4. How much does it cost to participate?
   • Alternative Spring Break: $450
   • Canada: $500
   • Peru: $1,000
   • India: $1,250
   • Uganda: $1,250  

   The fee helps to cover general room and board and transportation. It does not include the cost of immunizations, passport or additional items bought on the experience. All payments are non-refundable.

   Fundraising is also required and supports the site; it doesn’t defray your out-of-pocket cost.

   However, we do not want money to be a prohibitive factor in your application for Alternative Spring Break or International Immersion. If you have a financial need, you can apply for a grant from the Campus Ministry Service Break Experience Fund.
    

5. When are applications due?
   The online application is due Thursday, September 20, 2012 by 11:59 p.m.
    
6. Where can I get an application?
   Complete the Alternative Spring Break/International Immersion application online.
    
7. Do I get to choose where I will be going for my Service Break experience?
   Yes and no. We look for participants who are open to the entire experience regardless of their placement. Therefore, although we cannot guarantee your first choice, we try to match you to a service site based on your application, interview and year in school.
    
8. What can I expect?
   You will work with a group of 8-10 members of the St. Edward’s University community throughout the school year and at your service site to build community, do justice, live simply and engage spiritually. The specific service depends on your site placement.

   Flexibility is key! Rain happens. Traffic happens. Don’t be discouraged. Sometimes, that’s when the best and unexpected things happen!

   In short, you will laugh a lot, work a lot, play a lot and grow a lot.

9. What is the time commitment?
   Fall Semester
   Opening Ceremony: Sunday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m.
   Miles for a Mission 5K (fundraiser): Sunday morning, Oct. 28 (as a participant or volunteer)
   Day of Service: Saturday, Nov. 17 (times vary depending on placement)

   Spring Semester
   Retreat: Sunday, Feb. 3, 1-5 p.m.
   ASB Commissioning: Friday, March 8 at 6 p.m.
   ASB Reunion: Sunday, March 24 at 6 p.m.
   International Immersion Commissioning: Friday, May 11 at noon

10.  Is it safe?
    Safety is our top priority. As with any travel there are dangers, but each of our sites are screened carefully and measure are taken to ensure your safety. Participants are never allowed to travel alone.