For students currently in grades 9–12
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Travel programs with the Smithsonian Institution for grades 8–12

Challenge yourself academically at the world's most prestigious universities

Non-profit organization offering student travel scholarships

High school youth summit focused on public health, climate change, and equity

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Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

A Letter from Dublin: Notes from Ireland

Journey alongside two students on our Career Ireland program as they discover Dublin’s wealth of inspiration for wordsmiths. 

On July Fourth, we were able to explore Dublin by bus and train. After many rides on the local transportation systems, we arrived in Howth, a beautiful coastal town. We hiked along lush green cliffs overlooking the ocean until we reached the white lighthouse at the edge of the cliff. We walked silently while taking pictures, observing, and reflecting, so that, by the time we reached the edge of the hike, we could lay in the tall grass, look out at the sea, and write about our feelings and surroundings. This was picturesque and such a special experience. 

Students sitting on grassy hill with notebooks

Next, we went to an Irish step-dancing class where no one knew what to expect. We ended up learning two group dances and had an incredibly fun time! We ate dinner at a pub and got gelato in the busiest part of Dublin, the Temple Bar neighborhood. The decorative street was closed off to cars and full of shops, restaurants, and people. Although there were no fireworks, the Fourth of July in Ireland was incredibly exciting!

Student sits on grass, wind blowing back hair, overlooking hills with notebook in hand

On Saturday, we spent some time exploring the Abbey Theater and learned about its intriguing past. We also explored hair, make-up, and costume design. Then, we went out for lunch and explored a few little shops before heading back to our hotel. 

Student sits on grassy patch with a notebook, rocks an cliffs behind them

Back at the hotel, our first group of writers shared pieces they had been working on since arriving in Ireland. These works ranged from short stories to poetry, and each was a unique piece that was personal to each writer. After that we went out for a dinner filled with conversation, and spent the rest of the night watching an amazing play back at Abbey Theater. 

Students sit in the grass in a row, some staring off into the distance some writing in notebooks

Overall, these past few days have been filled with exploration and laughter and we cannot wait to see what is still to come!

Signing off,
Sophia and Sabrina

To learn more about our Career Ireland program, click here!

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Eligible for 8th grade*
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered

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