This October, The Classic held its annual overnight trip in Washington DC, giving editors, writers, and Writers Academy members the opportunity to collaborate and bond with one another.
English teacher and Classic Advisor Brian Sweeney planned the three day itinerary, which consisted of national monuments and museum visits,, while considering suggestions from The Classic members as well as the Editor-In Chiefs.
“The trip is meant to be educational, but it’s also for team building,” said Mr. Sweeney. “The Classic has been growing for many years, and I want students to be able to get to know the many different people who work for the paper in a social context.”
Librarian Arlene Laverde, a chaperone on the trip, said, “The itinerary was clear, and we always knew what we were going to do, where we were going to go, and what was expected. My biggest fear is always that something will happen to a student but kids at [Townsend Harris] are always well behaved, so my fears were unfounded.”
Students saw the trip as an opportunity to meet new people, collaborate with others, and learn new skills, all while experiencing a change of scenery.
“The DC trip was a really good opportunity for me to get to know people outside of my [grade],” said freshman Afarah Cruz-Tillery. “I liked seeing all the historic monuments and the museums, and I just had a fun experience with my age group. I’m focusing on the multimedia department, and I think the DC trip [taught] me to know how to record certain moments, memories, [and] different experiences.”
Senior Toluwanimi Oyeleye, one of the Editors-In-Chief of The Classic, said, “I had a great experience on the DC trip. I was able to spend time with my friends and have a break from school. It was a valuable bonding experience for students as we spent a lot of time together throughout the long bus rides and sharing hotel rooms.”
Sophomore and Classic multimedia editor Aidan Ng said, “My experience on the DC trip was great. It was really fun and seeing all the museums [was] pretty cool. It was an opportunity to spend time with my friends outside of school. I think it definitely strengthened my ability to work [with] a camera. Usually I’m the one working behind the scenes, editing the videos, but this trip gave me the opportunity to be the one in front of the camera.”
Student Union Club Liaison and junior Elvis Chan said, “I enjoyed the DC trip, it was my first overnight experience and it enhanced my multimedia ability. Meeting and [working] with new people was also fun.”
Staff members also took the DC trip as a bonding experience for students and teachers alike, enjoying their conversations over meals and the rather long bus ride.
English teacher Kevin McDonaugh said, “I don’t know how many opportunities students and teachers have to see each other outside of school so I think it’s nice to have time to [reconnect] with those around you.”
The Classic previously uploaded a vlog on the trip. You can watch it here.
