If you have a question that you don’t see listed below, please contact the Civic and Community Engagement Center located in SC-213 at (201)-684-7586 or by e-mail at ccec@ramapo.edu
How do I apply for an Alternative Break trip?
The application for all the trips run by the Civic and Community Engagement Center will be available on Archway
How does the selection process work?
The Coordinator for Community Engagement will review the applications and decide who is selected to participate in an Alternative Break trip.
When will I be notified if I am selected?
Applicants selected to become an alternative break participant will be notified no later than February 9th, 2024
How many alternative spring break trips are offered and to what destinations?
In 2024, three trips will be offered. In previous years, it has ranged from 2 to 5 trips a year. Previous locations have included Quito, Ecuador; Aranjuez, Costa Rica; Asheville, North Carolina; Perryville, Arkansas and Rutland, Massachusetts.
Are all the trips open to all students?
Most trips are open to all students. Occasionally there are trips that limit applicants to first-year students, commuter students, or other specific populations. Any limitations for applicants will be clearly noted
Are there trip leaders? How are they selected?
Each alternative break trip may have one student leader and always one faculty or staff leader. Those interested in serving in this capacity should contact the Civic and Community Engagement Center for more information. Trip leaders are selected to based on prior experience with alternative break trips or similar travel experiences, overall leadership qualities and abilities, and commitment to work that furthers the common good.
How much do the trips cost?
Each trip will have its own cost. Fees are determined based on transportation, lodging, meals, program and other costs. The Center for Student Involvement subsidizes a percentage of the total cost of each trip.
What about fundraising?
Each trip is encouraged to do fundraising for their respective group. It is also recommended that students fundraise individually to help with cost. The Civic and Community Engagement Center also organizes general fundraising for the program.
Will I receive a refund if I pay for a trip and then can’t go?
Refunds are only issued in rare instances. You must request a refund in writing. For international trips and other trips involving air travel, no refunds will be issued once your plane ticket has been generated.
Will I need a passport for the international trips?
Yes! You will need a valid passport to travel internationally. To be considered for either international trip, you must submit a copy of your valid passport to the Civic and Community Engagement Center at the same time as you submit your application on Archway.
As please note that starting 5/7/25, a Real ID or passport is required for domestic flights as well.
Are there health and safety issues to keep in mind?
Yes! You are the primary guardian of your own health and safety. It is important to remember this. It is also important to remember that you will be traveling with a group. Group members look out for each other and help each other to stay safe and healthy. You will be given a liability waiver and medical information form so that trip leaders can be aware of any health conditions or medical concerns. When traveling to unfamiliar destinations it is crucial to observe the highest safety practices. Always travel with the whole group or at least in pairs. Be certain that someone knows where you are at all times. Observe all the health and safety regulations of the host site. Never take unnecessary risks with your own safety or the safety of others. International health insurance is included in the total cost for International Trips
Once I have been selected for a trip, what are my responsibilities?
Each trip will hold at least 2 pre-trip meetings. You are responsible for attending each pre-trip meeting. These meetings will cover health and safety, itinerary, work projects, team-building exercises, fundraising and more. It is critical that you make yourself available for these meetings in order for the group to make the most of their experience. Once you have returned from your alternative break trip, you will be responsible for attending at least one (1) post-trip solidarity meeting/presentation and for attending, if at all possible, the celebratory luncheon or reception that usually takes place in April.
How do I get more information?
Visit the CCEC Archway page online and the Civic and Community Engagement Center in room SC213 to stay up to date. You can also email ccec@ramapo.edu
Why are trips alcohol and substance-free?
One reason Alternative breaks were founded was to counter the excesses of “traditional” college spring breaks. Beyond this, alcohol and other substance-free environments promote safety, health, and wellness and offer participants more authentic opportunities for team-building and service to others.
