Each year, the eighth-grade students of GreenMount School travel to a remote part of the United States or to another country as part of their Immersion Program. Students are immersed in the destination, learning about the geography, history, and culture of the people who call that area home. Students generally travel in the spring for 6-9 days, depending on the destination and goals of the trip. Recently, students traveled to Iceland to experience the raw beauty in nature and immerse themselves in the study of geology and Icelandic culture. In other years, the students have traveled to the Canyonlands of Utah, Costa Rica, the Netherlands, Scotland, and Spain. Academic preparation includes an independent study project on the country to inform travel and communication.
Here is what alumni have had to say about the trip:
“The trip brought us closer together as a group. I cannot wait to explore other parts of the world!”
“I gained confidence and bonded with classmates and teachers. I loved being with my kindergarten teacher again at this age! I am so glad she got to go on the trip with us.”
“I didn’t think I could survive without my parents for 10 days. I missed them, but I survived!”
“Life in Iceland seems safe and laid back. We should all soak in hot tubs every day!”
“We got to stay up late one night because we had no plans the next day, except exploring the farm we were staying on. Finally, around midnight, The Northern Lights flashed across the sky. I will never forget that night as long as I live.”
