By Abby Kozal, Culture Editor
TRIO students outside of the U.S. Capitol Building – Photo by Yesenia Bernal-Alcala
Over spring break, Aquinas’ TRIO Student Support Services program took 16 students on an experiential learning trip to Washington D.C. While there, students expanded their historical and cultural knowledge of the nation’s capital.
The trip was fully funded for participating students, with airfare, food, lodging and other activities covered by TRIO SSS. In D.C., students had the opportunity to visit various monuments and museums, such as the Vietnam Wall Memorial, the National Art Gallery and the Holocaust Museum.
“I didn’t get many opportunities to travel growing up,” TRIO SSS Peer Mentor Sophia Lentine said, “so I’m so grateful for a chance to get to go somewhere new.”
Federal TRIO programs provide support to students across the country who meet at least one of three criteria: they come from a low income household, they are a first generation college student or they are a student with a disability. Funding for TRIO is provided by the Department of Education. With the recent executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, many TRIO students have stressed the importance of the program now more than ever. Aquinas’ TRIO students got a chance to share these thoughts with a member of Hillary Scholten’s, Representative for Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District, team.
While visiting the Capitol, the group was allowed access inside the House of Representatives. Scholten’s team provided TRIO students with tickets to sit in the House’s gallery during a committee meeting.
TRIO students pose for a picture outside Hillary Scholten’s office – Photo by Yesenia Bernal-Alcala
As part of the experiential learning trip, students also learned how to budget their own money and immersed themselves in the culture of D.C.. Many students also experienced traveling by plane and by metro for the first time.
“My favorite part about the trip was experiencing the metro,” sophomore Cristian Zacharias said. “I found it amazing to ride, and it seems easier to navigate than the Rapid.”
“I’ve only gone a few days, but I think it’d be enjoyable to be there longer,” Zacharias said. “because there’s just so much more to do and experience.”
TRIO waits for the city metro – Photo by Yesenia Bernal-Alcala
The Saint 