School’s back in session! Warriors were busy this summer, exploring the world, learning new cultures, from places like Japan, New Zealand, Australia, and even Greece. While students are still adjusting to new policies and schedules, many can’t help but mourn the loss of their beloved vacations. Many can’t help but look back on a summer full of travel, adventure, and relaxation.
Japan, known for its beautiful scenery, awesome culture, and delicious food, is an ultimate tourist destination, and juniors Gavyn Eastman and Jesalyn Mollica call themselves lucky with the chance to experience it. They found themself on a 14-hour plane flight for a foreign exchange opportunity to explore Japan through the Atlanta Sister City program. These two immersed themselves in Japanese culture by spending a week in Fukuoka, Japan, and staying with a Japanese host family while attending Wakaba High School. They both got to experience Japanese culture and traditions, along with endless bowls of ramen. Mollica’s highlight of the trip was visiting temples and shrines with her host family. “I learned so much about their culture and religion while getting to try all these different types of foods with my host sister,” said Mollica.
The Worldly Warriors group traveled even farther, taking the North Atlanta Students on a trip to Australia and New Zealand for a week filled with kangaroos, indigenous tribes, and the occasional “Crikey, mate!” from the locals. When the students weren’t having a turf war with the huge local spiders, they were learning about different species of animals and taking in the beautiful nature that Australia had to offer. Junior Alex Daniels was fascinated by the cultural lessons, learning from the indigenous people and comparing the differences. “ I didn’t expect kangaroos to just chill out in people’s backyards, though,” said Daniels.
From the mountains of Montenegro to the ancient ruins of Greece and the architecture of France, Junior Lea Stanojevic filled out her passport stamp collection. After a busy summer exploring France, Greece, Montenegro, and Serbia, Stanojevic spent her days soaking in the sun on the beach and sampling foods far outside the American comfort zone. She loved exploring the historic landmarks, reflecting on how, compared to Atlanta, the mountains of Montenegro are like the moon. “It makes you realize how small you are in comparison,” said Stanojevic.
As students settle into the rhythm of the new school year, these summer experiences serve as a reminder that life is about more than exams and homework. Whether across the globe or close to home, every Warrior’s story is worth sharing.
