The air is filled with anticipation as next school year’s Experience Week locations have been released. From the beaches of Bali to the mountains of Kathmandu, these diverse destinations spreading across 3 continents have sparked lively discussions amongst grade levels. With the trips still months away, we unpack the choices ahead and explore student perspectives for a better understanding of what is ahead.
For many, the prospect of the Bali trip is incredibly appealing, with some students particularly excited about the possibility of a sunrise hike up Mount Batur and ziplining across the rice fields. “It really could be a once in a lifetime opportunity,” says Rachael K, a current grade 10 student, “it’s definitely something everyone would want to experience at least once”. Future grade 12 representative Brianna W also expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming trips, calling experience week an “amazing time to bond and make memories”, particularly for the rising seniors as it will be their “last high school trip together”. This excitement is shared throughout a variety of unique activities in different locations, such as the incomparable whitewater rafting experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and the remarkable chance to learn the fundamentals of flight and gain aircraft experience at the Enzo Flying School in Adelaide, Australia.
Additionally, this coming year brings an exciting array of service opportunities. Students will be able to roll up their sleeves and help out with local communities, doing everything from refurbishing and rebuilding classrooms in Sri Lanka to working hand-in-hand with schools. Students are also looking forward to leaving tangible change in Hanoi, and teaching and engaging in fun activities at the Janakalyan School in Kathmandu. These projects are all about making a positive, direct, and meaningful impact on the community – an endeavour CDNIS continuously strives to achieve.
The excitement surrounding Experience Week is also largely driven by the opportunity for students to step out of their comfort zone, particularly through the unique experience of mixed grade trips. This tradition has been around at CDNIS since its early years, but was recently paused due to COVID-19. As a result, many current students have yet to experience this and are keen to deepen their bonds with peers across different grade levels.
As enthusiasm builds, students across grade levels are eager to embark on a new journey during next school year’s Experience Week. The blend of adventure and service not only ensures students create unforgettable memories but also provides many with the chance to forge lasting connections across grade levels and on a global level. Whether students are hiking a volcano or engaging with students at a local school, everyone is ready to make the most of every moment, turning Experience Week into the adventure of a lifetime!
