New York Times Student Journeys

Through the learning moments and pure fun, traveling with New York Times Student Journeys was simply one of the best decisions of my life. While taking part in an overflow of compelling pursuits and in-depth discussions about the rooted complexities of the American South alongside my phenomenal new friends, every aspect of this trip allowed me to sharpen my perspective of America’s physique, and embrace my potent curiosity through knowledge I would not have attained within classroom walls. Walking the grounds of historic landmarks such as the Whitney Plantation and the National Civil Rights Museum, listening to the pivotal messages from Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion consultant Jabari Carmichael and poet-activist A Scribe Called Quess? and taking in the heavy auras of the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice all taught me plenty in more ways than any textbook ever could. Particularly participating in a slavery reenactment at By the River Center for Humanity and later standing on the Edmund Pettus Bridge just a few blocks farther in Selma, Alabama were my most powerful and heart-grabbing experiences that I am simply grateful to have had. The intensely deep connection I shared with African American culture— my culture— was truly surreal, and will forever make me cry, laugh and reminisce everything in between as I continue to do my part in making change.

The New York Times Oxford Journalism Student Journey was the best summer experience I've ever had. Not only did I learn incredibly useful writing skills, but I also became a more independent person. Spending two weeks at Oxford away from my family gave me a taste of what college may be like. The program challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and try skills such as interviewing Oxford locals about the accuracy of the Harry Potter films. I also learned many skills that extended beyond journalism, such as how to pitch an idea and how to effectively collaborate with others. On the program, I also met so many amazing students from all around the United States. Our synonymous love of journalism helped me to instantly connect with other students, sharing stories of our school newspapers, our hometowns and our love-hate relationships with the media. I still keep in touch with at least five or six students from the program. During the program, we traveled all over Oxford and around England to Stonehenge, London, and Stratford upon-Avon. By far, the most incredible part of the trip, however, is meeting the New York Times journalists and editors. Through lectures, presentations, debates and simply chatting while strolling down the street in Oxford, I learned so much about their experiences as professional journalists. All the NYT experts were so engaged in the program and genuinely wanted to talk to each and every one of us about our ideas for our final project or even just about our lives. Having a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, such as Jim Dwyer, read and edit your writing is a priceless experience. I am very proud of my final project, an op-ed on to whom art belongs, featuring Oxford's Ashmolean Museum. Looking back on the program, I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride and accomplishment, along with many fond memories of days spent exploring Oxford's streets. I came away from the program as a better writer and a more independent person, with many amazing new friends and great stories to tell. I am even looking to participate in another New York Times Student Journey next summer!

The two weeks I spent in Iceland were probably the best two weeks of my life. All of the adventures we went on were incredible. I will never forget the nature we saw on this trip. I learned so much about climate change and Icelandic culture, but the learning never took away from any of the fun. It was amazing to interact with people who lived in Iceland and learn about how different their life is from mine. I became good friends with a girl my age who lives in Isafjordur, and we are still in touch. The trip changed the way I live my life, in the sense of how aware of the environment I am. I try my best to never use plastic water bottles, and the environment is on my mind no matter what I do. I've actually decided to start only using natural and environmentally friendly shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. It's really my experience in Iceland that showed me how important it is to be environmentally conscious. I was always aware of climate change, but it's so different to see the effects first hand. But other than climate related things, I made friendships on this trip to last a lifetime. I miss everyone from the trip so much. I look back on our memories together all the time, and I wish I could relive this trip with them. It was one of my best decisions to decide to go on this student journey.

If you're up for two weeks filled with adventure, fun, and lasting friendships this is the trip for you. You're voyaging and exploring Iceland's most beautiful locations and amazing people with like-minded students. There was never a dull moment, and to this day I find myself reminiscing on the fantastic summer I had with the leaders and other students. You get the chance to drive through the beautiful fjords, hike glaciers, fish in the Nordic waters, visit and soak in hot springs (including the Blue Lagoon), venture off in the capital of Reykjavik, try genuine and traditional Icelandic cuisine and dishes (like cured shark), and learn of the Icelandic culture from Icelandic locals and experts. This trip goes beyond being something to put on your resume- it's become a memory I will never forget.