8th-grade students traveled to New York City for an immersive experience centered around the United Nations. In addition to touring the UN Headquarters, the class also explored the city, participated in a UN simulation, and bonded with one another ahead of their upcoming 8th Grade Promotion.
There is nothing like seeing a place you are learning about in person. Every students’ understanding of the United Nations was enhanced by this trip. Additionally, the community-building (especially at the end of 8th grade) is a beautiful bonus.
-Kristin FitzGerald and Megan Wu Macomber, trip organizers
At the UN, tour guides led three groups throughout the building. A major highlight of the tour involved seeing iconic spaces such as the General Assembly and Security Council halls as well as the designated entrance for delegates. Students also identified a plethora of famous art pieces throughout the tour, including Non-Violence by Carl Frederik Reuterswärd and War & Peace by Candido Portinari. “Students reflected on how connected the tour felt to what they had already learned in class,” organizers of the trip remark. “Seeing the spaces and the art in person made it all more ‘real’.”
Kristin FitzGerald and Megan Wu Macomber, trip organizers, remarked: “Students started the year with a module focused on global citizenship, challenging them to consider how they can engage with social, political, environmental, and economic happenings around the world. These themes were expanded upon throughout the year, with students learning about how the United Nations addresses global issues by leveraging collaboration and cooperative conflict resolution. Students also participated in UN simulations at Beaver to develop a deeper understanding of global citizenship. There is nothing like seeing a place you are learning about in person. Every students’ understanding of the United Nations was enhanced by this trip. Additionally, the community-building (especially at the end of 8th grade) is a beautiful bonus.”
After grabbing a bite to eat, students settled into the hotel conference hall to engage in a UN simulation focused on climate change. Diving into the activity so soon after touring the United Nations provided more context and inspiration for students, making the simulation all the more engaging.
With a ban on phones in place for the entire experience, students got creative with how they passed time on the bus and in the hotel; books, games, and endless conversation filled the time between each stop. When reflecting upon the trip, several students pointed to these moments—and the deeper connections they formed with classmates—as highlights of the entire experience.