As immersion into social justice issues continues to be at the forefront of a Jesuit education, LMU’s Alternative Breaks (AB) program is expanding its offerings for the 2023-24 academic year to include domestic and international destinations.
Students continue seeking meaningful experiences to expand their horizons, build on their LMU education, and deepen their commitment to social justice here and globally. This year’s newest destinations include Arizona, Chicago, Guatemala, the Philippines, South Africa, and Namibia.
LMU’s AB program allows LMU students, staff, and faculty to engage in cultural exchange at the local, national, and international levels through interactive community-based learning. Students critically explore social justice issues that challenge their self-awareness and inspire lifelong social action as active citizens in their communities. “As we continue to look for meaningful immersion experiences for our students,” said Jenni Mendez, assistant director for Alternative Breaks and Advocacy, “I am excited to expand our options this year and help our community engage in social justice education beyond the bluff.”
The 2023-24 AB immersions will take place during winter, spring, and summer breaks:
- Dec. 15-22, 2023
- El Salvador
- Feb. 23-March 2, 2024
- Arizona
- Belize
- Chicago
- Guatemala
- Puerto Rico
- West Virginia
- May 5-17, 2024
- Philippines
- South Africa/Namibia
Faculty and staff are invited to participate in the AB program as advisors to our student leaders for each of the immersion experiences. This involves a commitment to attend pre-immersion educational meetings, accompany the students on the experience, serve as a resource, and support the students after the experience to develop a post-immersion action. The AB team is currently accepting applications for students, staff, and faculty through the following dates:
- Sept. 13 – Staff/Faculty applications due here
- Sept. 17 – Student participant applications are due here
Students can learn more about these immersion experiences by attending an upcoming information night session on the following dates:
- AB Info Night One – Wednesday, Sept. 6, 5-6 p.m. in The Mbongi Spot
- AB Info Night Two – Monday, Sept. 11, 6-7 p.m. in Malone 460C (the Hill)
- AB Info Night Three, Friday, Sept. 15, 4-5 p.m. in Pereira Hall 140