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MMW Serves 2026 focuses on the peoples, cultures, and historical significance of Southern California’s Colorado Desert.

Learn about this fascinating yet too often marginalized region in the context of regional, national, and world history. This program is embedded in UC San Diego’s Making of the Modern World  program, combining academic preparation and experiential activity. A Winter 2026 MMW Serves seminar (fulfilling MMW14 or MMW122 requirements) provides the academic preparation.  After completion, students spend Spring Break in the desert region to deepen their understanding of the region’s diverse human and natural history, and to support efforts for environmental protection and sustainability.

The experiential desert component takes place after the conclusion of the winter course during Spring Break (Sunday to Friday). The program is based in and around Anza Borrego Desert State Park, with activities ranging far and wide across the desert landscape. MMW Serves is offered through a partnership between the Making of the Modern World Program at Eleanor Roosevelt College and UCSD’s Outback Adventures.

Cost: $400  There is a Non-Refundable $200 deposit due by December 4. The second Non-Refundable Payment for the remainder is due by Feb 11.  The fee covers the cost of food, lodging, and activities for the week, as well as transportation to/from UCSD and to all desert sites.

Applications are due by Nov. 20, 2025. Space is limited. Students accepted into the program must successfully complete the MMW Serves seminar to participate in the Spring Break program.

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