Immersive travel experience is the creation of a more connected and tolerant society.

https://heysocal.com/2023/04/13/how-a-trip-to-mexico-taught-san-gabriel-students-about-cultural-awareness/

How a trip to Mexico taught San Gabriel students about cultural awareness.

It's not everyday that students get the opportunity to travel for free. But that's what the organization Options For Youth (OFY) offered students from San Gabriel High School outside of Los Angeles. The article explained that there was a competitive application process that required students to submit an essay describing their interest in the program. "Students with the most compelling essays were awarded a subsequent interview before final selection and notification."

The article described the students by stating, "Our trip included students who were first-time flyers with this being their first time out of the country and away from home. Students are given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore different parts of the world and experience different cultures at no cost. It brought me joy seeing our students trying the delicious local cuisine and learning more about the culture in Mexico.”

The organization and its mission inspired me as I have been fortunate to participate in many global immersive travel experiences that have felt life changing in both my worldview and cultural awareness. I think its awesome that OFY gave these students, who would not have been able to experience global immersive travel, the chance for personal growth and discovery.

As you can probably tell, I'm a huge supporter of global immersive travel and believe that in our increasingly interconnected world it is vital for high school students to broaden their horizons beyond the confines of their family and local communities. I also believe that immersive travel experiences allow young minds to delve into different cultures, gain cultural awareness, to foster a more connected and tolerant society.

As an intellectually curious high school student, I feel that when students immerse themselves in another culture, they embark on a transformative journey of discovery. They witness firsthand the diverse customs, traditions, languages, and values of societies different from their own. This firsthand experience cultivates a deeper sense of empathy and understanding, dismantling stereotypes and fostering cultural sensitivity. This is more important than ever as our world is plagued by divisive rhetoric and misunderstanding about whole races, religions and cultures. Fostering global understanding is crucial. By exposing high school students to different cultures, we equip them with the tools to navigate the complexities of a diverse world. They become ambassadors of tolerance and acceptance, fostering connections across borders and reducing prejudice.

Stepping outside one's comfort zone and immersing in a foreign culture challenges students to question their own assumptions and biases. It encourages critical thinking and a broader perspective on global issues. By interacting with individuals from different backgrounds, students gain insights that transcend textbooks and classroom lectures, broadening their worldview and nurturing their intellectual growth. The ability to analyze and interpret cultural differences is invaluable in an increasingly globalized workforce. Employers seek individuals who possess cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and a keen understanding of diverse markets. By traveling and gaining cultural awareness at a young age, high school students gain a competitive edge in their future careers.

Immersive travel experiences also facilitate personal growth and self-discovery fostering resilience, independence, and adaptability. While traveling, students encounter challenges and unfamiliar situations, requiring them to navigate new environments, build relationships, and find their place in an unfamiliar cultural context. These experiences nurture self-confidence and a sense of self-reliance that will benefit them throughout their lives. Students who travel gain a profound appreciation for their own culture. By witnessing the customs and traditions of others, they develop a newfound respect for their heritage and a desire to preserve and share it with others. This awareness of their own identity strengthens their sense of self and cultivates a strong foundation from which they can contribute positively to society.

Ultimately, the cumulative effect of high school students engaging in immersive travel experiences is the creation of a more connected and tolerant society. By gaining cultural awareness and embracing diversity, they become active participants in breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity. They contribute to the development of a society that cherishes the values of respect, empathy, and open-mindedness which I feel is a key component in building a better world.