Each year, New International Student Orientation at The Storm King School includes a multi-day trip to Washington, DC, giving new students an opportunity to experience American history, culture, and traditions together as they begin life on the Mountain. Accompanied by their dorm prefects, this year’s group explored some of the country’s most important landmarks, museums, memorials, and cultural institutions. For many students, the trip was also their first opportunity to travel in the United States.
The group began at the center of American government, visiting the Capitol Building, Library of Congress, and Supreme Court. Students also stopped outside the White House, learning more about its historic role and capturing photos of their visit.
The itinerary continued with a broad look at American history and culture. At the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History and National Air and Space Museum, students explored exhibits spanning the natural world, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. A visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture offered another perspective on the people, experiences, and events that have shaped the United States.
The National Mall provided an opportunity to see some of the country’s most recognizable monuments and memorials in person. Students visited the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial before continuing to Arlington National Cemetery and the Marine Corps War Memorial. Together, these visits offered opportunities to learn about and reflect on the people and events represented by these historic places.
The trip also included plenty of opportunities for fun and exploration. Students had time to shop and relax before putting their detective skills to work at the International Spy Museum, where interactive exhibits offered a hands-on introduction to the world of intelligence and espionage. At the National Zoo, the group encountered a wide variety of animals, including the giant pandas.
After several busy days in Washington, the group made one final stop on the way back to Storm King: Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. Roller coasters, water rides, and midway games provided a lively finale to a week filled with sightseeing, learning, and new experiences.
The annual DC trip is more than an introduction to the nation’s capital. It gives new international students the chance to explore the United States together while getting to know their classmates and beginning to build connections within their new community.
