UAHS offered many different travel opportunities this summer. Students traveled the world, immersing themselves in different cultures, visiting historical sites, exploring their interests and learning about the world outside of UA.
Danny Vidaurre attended the Berlin Global Summit trip with a group of UAHS students.
“It wasn’t just like any other trip,” Vidaurre said.
Students around the world came together to discuss sustainability, listen to key speakers and learn about what students can do to become involved in sustainability efforts. Participants could choose what classes to go to as well. The summit had originally been what piqued Vidaurre’s interest.
“My favorite part was probably actually after the summit when we were just touring around Rome and Naples,” Vidaurre said, however. “They would give us like maybe two or three hours of free time. We could really just walk around and go into all the shops, get food, and just explore naturally.”
Meanwhile, Delaney Acker attended a trip to Greece and Italy. Students toured the cities, visited archeological sites and explored the different cultures’ cuisine.
“Seventh grade history class was when we learned a lot about Ancient Greece and the Romans. And so ever since then I had always been interested in seeing those places in person,” Acker said. “We got to visit so many different places like Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Turkey. And so being able to see all those different places in one trip and just having that experience… It was really cool.”
For Sophia Taylor, attending the Andros Island science trip in the Bahamas was a way to explore Taylor’s interests in marine biology and the ocean in general.
“I saw it as a really cool option to go with friends and people with common interests while also learning so much and from people that are kind of living that day to day,” Taylor said.
A large part of the trip, Taylor said, was learning about the ecology overall and how the geology, botany and biology of the island worked together.
“And learning all that through snorkeling, exploring the island and meeting with locals,” Taylor said. “It was an amazing opportunity and you don’t get many like this.”
For those contemplating attending a trip next summer, Taylor said, “I would strongly recommend it. I was nervous about going but it honestly was such a great learning experience and the people there are just so kind.”
Acker, on the other hand, stressed the importance of choosing a trip you’re passionate and excited about.
“You just want to make sure that you get the hundred percent experience that you’re paying for and going for,” Acker said.
“Definitely do it,” Vidaurre said to those contemplating going on a trip next summer. “I was really nervous because when I signed up I didn’t know if any of my friends were doing it but everyone was nice. You’re definitely going to find a group if you decide to go. So, I wouldn’t be worried about that. It’s a great experience; interacting with a different culture entirely and even if you don’t end up enjoying the experiences as much, you’ll still have learned something new, for sure.”
