Introduction

"It is easy to put blinders on during the semester that correspond to the specializations at SI, such as librarian, archivist, etc. You forget the flexibility of these skills and the ways you can bring your personal talents and background to bear on the information profession."

"Since the end of ASB, I have developed an interest in diversifying my course selection for next year to include some archival and library management courses..."

"[My experience] also reaffirmed my decision to work in the nonprofit arena at a 'meta' level, where I can really contribute to overall practices of the sector in a far-reaching and sustainable way."

"It was also a wonderful opportunity to have the experience of working in New York. The train ride every morning was an experience in itself!"

With thirty-seven School of Information students, Alternative Spring Break 2003 had the greatest participation since the program began five years ago! The depth and breadth of SI were evident this year as students of all specializations took part in the weeklong practical work and learning experience provided by the Office of Academic Outreach.

Based on solicited student recommendations, ten organizations in two of America's most vibrant cities - New York City and Washington, DC - were chosen for this year's trip. With missions as diverse as the interests of our students, these ten organizations provided excellent opportunities for some "real world" experience with which to match and test our SI coursework and professional abilities. Twenty-four students went to New York and thirteen went to DC.

Despite giving up a leisurely spring break to volunteer our time and efforts at these organizations, we seized the opportunity to explore and take in some of the best of what New York and DC have to offer. In addition to many other informal gatherings with other SI students, we went to the Metropolitan Opera, we rode the subways, we attended local theatre performances, we visited many museums, including the New York Historical Society and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and we ate diversely and richly!!

The ASB planning committee also worked with the SI Alumni Relations Office to hold an alumni reception in each city. The interaction with alumni was a highlight for many students and feedback from the alumni indicates that they too enjoyed mingling with the next generation of SI grads.

ASB 2003 wishes to offer our most grateful acknowledgement to the private sponsors who generously supported this year's trip and arranged for us to enjoy a grand dinner 'on the house' at Smith & Wollensky in DC and at Villa Berulia in New York.

The School of Information covers student travel costs and lodging for Alternative Spring Break through a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in support of Practical Engagement Programs and Academic Outreach. The Project Director of Alternative Spring Break at SI is Professor Maurita P. Holland; this year's project manager is Peter Keller-Transburg with coordinating support from Liz Keith (New York) and from Marsha Antal (Ann Arbor).

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