By Lauren Lyle, Aquinas Reporter
On Sept. 26 Aquinas College’s art and history departments led a bus trip to Chicago for Aquinas students and community members. The total number of people who came on the trip was 43, including five faculty members, 31 students, and seven community members composed of alumni and their guests.
The itinerary of the trip included museum options for larger groups such as the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures at The University of Chicago or ISAC, The Field Museum, and The Art Institute of Chicago. A group of 10 people went to the history museums in the morning and the rest of the people started at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Prof. Gunnoe and eight students in front of IASC – Photo by Lauren Lyle
People were also allowed to go off in pairs or smaller groups to explore other things to do in the Chicago area. Many of the students chose to go to museums in the morning with the larger groups and then split up with friends to go see Michigan Ave. or go shopping. Some people went to Water Tower Place, the international Starbucks, Cloud Gate (more commonly known as The Bean), and other places along Michigan Ave.
Aquinas students and faculty smile at their reflection in Cloud Gate. Left to right: Julia Grzadkowska, Prof. Lareau, and Prof. Freeman – Photo by Prof. Freeman
“I enjoyed the variety of exhibits and free time to explore Chicago with friends,” including that it was a day “full of new experiences,” student Cecilia Remington said on the bus ride back. Several students made comments about how they wished it was an overnight trip so that they could have a second day to do things and explore more.
“I loved touring the museum and looking at all of the famous art pieces/work.” said Myca Johnson. “I also loved exploring around Chicago and seeing the bridge and Michigan Avenue.”
Johnson said that the only thing she “disliked was that there was not enough time to do everything,” adding that she will “definitely be back.” Other students thought getting to know people, exploring new places, and trying new foods were the most exciting parts of the annual trip.
The Saint 