With summer vacation right around the corner, some students are taking trips outside of the country. Hope Sparks, 12th grade, is going all over Europe with Mr. Mabe and other students over the summer. “We’re going all over the place; the trip starts in London and then we go to Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, and then the tour is ending in Amsterdam” said Hope.

The significance of the trip for Hope is that it fulfills some of the objectives on her bucket list such as the Eiffel tower and gondolas. “It’ll be a great experience and it allows me to fulfill some of my dream goals to do in my lifetime on earth,” said Hope. This trip is also a reward for Hope; her parents indicated during her freshman year that if she kept her grades up throughout high school that she would be able to go to Europe. “I’ve been waiting 4 years for this trip, and the fact that I’m able to go is a reward and reminder that I was able to motivate myself to get a good GPA, be involved in school, and go to college,” she said.

Mason Guillaume, 11th grade, is also taking a trip out of the country over the summer to Lima, Peru. “I’m going there for a mission trip with my church to build homes and to donate to the poor people of that country,” said Mason. Mason hopes to give food and hope to those who have trouble providing for their families. “It’s really sad to see people struggle for basic needs, and I’m hoping to help them.” Mason will also be able to see the Pacific Ocean and visit some historical sites in Panama. He said, “I’m so excited to be in a different culture, and maybe even learn some Spanish!”