Europe 2023 Trip: Blog and Reflections

"This trip was one of the best moments of my life. I’ve been traveling a lot and this has been the most unforgettable trip I have ever had. It was so much fun and I loved being able to go with all the girls and teachers that really made the whole trip amazing." A.M.B '24

 

"Although I had been out of the country before and to the UK before, I got to explore 3 new major cities and two countries I had never visited before. I have such a new appreciation for both Spanish and French cultures, and now I will do whatever it takes to make sure I study abroad. I gained so much knowledge on both countries and was able to appreciate architecture and art that I never really knew about or could truly appreciate before this trip. Additionally, I am forever changed because I got to visit Normandy, the American cemetery at Omaha Beach, and Omaha Beach itself. To get to stand where the very soldiers who gave their lives for my country stood, fought, and died, was a once in a lifetime experience. It was one of the most moving, chilling, and beautiful days of my life that I will remember forever." S.M.K.'23

 

"I would definitely recommend the trip. I not only had fun but I learned so much about the history and culture of both countries." S.D.M.'24

"I believe that this trip did change me. Before going on this trip, I felt that I did not really understand European culture. On the trip, I was able to immerse myself in the culture and try new foods that I never had before the trip. I did not realize how “American” I really was until I went to France and Spain. It was strange trying these European foods and understanding their history since it was so different from the United States. I was inspired to integrate myself in these cultures, learn more about European history, and try new foods." N.W.'24

"The best part of the trip was the night festival we went to in Normandy.  It was a great last night in France and we could experience the culture and the way of living through the crowded cobblestone streets." A.K. '23

 

"I LOVED the chaperones!! They were so so so fun and interested in the trip! They wanted us to have fun and worked with us to ensure that the trip was extremely enjoyable! They were excited about the trip and their excitement transferred over to the girls! In addition they were extremely knowledgeable about the sites we visited and the cities we were in which made it so easy to ask questions and learn throughout the entirety of the trip!". E.G.'23

 

"This trip made me realize just how much I love to explore and travel the world. I have always wanted to study abroad but never knew where and I would love to study in France. I am inspired to meet new people wherever I go and this trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am incredibly grateful for this experience because I know there are people who will never have the chance to experience this. My mindset changed while being abroad. I take everything in for what it is and I now take each opportunity I am given because I never know just how much it can change my life. I cannot wait to go back and I was heartbroken to leave." K.C.'24

 

"Personally, just being able to have this experience is the best part for me. The culture and ambiance was truly beautiful and I couldn’t ask for anything else. One of the events I enjoyed the most was attending mass because it brought me back home to when my family and I attend mass in Spanish. I also truly enjoyed the flamenco dancing despite the hot weather." J.P.G.'24

 

"This trip has definitely confirmed my wanting to continue to take Spanish classes next year and wanting to study abroad in college. I feel that it taught me a lot about French and Spanish culture. As an artist, I felt extremely inspired by all the gorgeous artwork I saw throughout the trip." G.S.'24

 

"I really enjoyed the flexibility for free time and structured activities. It really allowed me to see the city in an organized fashion, and gave us as a group a voice to determine what we did or did not want to do. I enjoyed exploring the cities and getting a feel for them with friends and also guides." A.H.'24

 

"I really enjoyed being able to use my existing language skills and pick up more along the way and through practice. I also loved all the sight seeing we did, especially going to the Louvre and La Sagrada Familia." B.S.'23

 

"Yes, I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend! I think that this trip was a great way to see different countries and travel because everything was planned out and we were with people who knew the language, history and culture of the places we were going. I also think it was a great way to connect with students who I never really had before the trip even though we go to the same school." Q.D.'24

 

"All in all I had a blast, and in hindsight I am happy that we saw so much, however in the moment I would have traded seeing one less thing for more sleep." A.L.'23

 

"Of course I'd recommend this trip to a friend! The experiences and sights you will see are truly astounding and worth the trip and lack of sleep." S.A.'23