Mid-mester: Freshmen

Mid mester

EXPERIENCE

On a warm September Monday, students boarded buses, airplanes, and vans to embark on a week of unforgettable experiential learning opportunities throughout the country. Students traveled to New York, Arizona, Florida, Charleston, Tennessee, and other areas around the southeast engaging in hands-on learning experiences connecting with and in real world situations. “We are excited to streamline what we’ve always done – offer experiential learning for our students,” said Director of Curriculum and Instruction Jim Van Hooser. “This is the first time we’ve consolidated it into the same week – Mid-mester.”

The freshman trip to the Atlantic coast included various encounters from alligators to astronauts. They visited Fort Matanzas, St. Augustine, the Kennedy Space Center, the Marine Science Center, the Historic Daytona Boardwalk, Magnolia Springs State Park, and participated in an estuary exploration.

The students’ visit to the Kennedy Space Center was particularly meaningful. TFS students named the Endeavor in 1989 as part of a nationwide contest. This built a lasting relationship with the Kennedy Space Center. “We met one of the astronauts that was on that shuttle,” said freshman Brantley Allen.

For freshman Sarah Lundy, there was never a dull moment. “Mid-mester was an amazing experience. I had the opportunity to meet new people and learn new things,” Lundy said. “My favorite parts of the trip were the simulated dolphin rescue and going to the NASA Space Station.”

Each experience provided an educational component that enriched the students’ overall preparation for life beyond TFS as well as genuine connections with each other. “The trip was such an exciting and unforgettable experience,” said freshman Katelyn Ivester. “I made many amazing memories and got to grow my friendships with people.”