This spring break, around 15 Honors students will have the opportunity to participate in a colloquium in New York City.
These students, along with Dr. Tracy Shilcutt and Dr. Michael Harbour, will spend the entire week traveling New York City for this year’s Study America. The trip aims to provide these lucky travelers with more of a “hands on'” experience than they would normally receive inside of a regular classroom.
This trip will consist of the exploration of the city while more specifically focusing on the Gotham metropolis.
“I am very excited about what this trip has to offer,” said Shelby Hall, senior political science major from Ovilla. “It looks like an amazing opportunity, and I’d be interested in learning more about it.”
During the week, students will gain a well-rounded view of what New York is all about through the exploration of some of the more famous locations around Manhattan. As the students journey through the city, they will get the chance to learn more about the architecture, politics and literature found in New York City.
Some of the sites to be explored include Cooper Union, Ellis Island, Times Square and Central Park. The Museum of the City of New York and Finding Five Points are also possible sites that may be included on the itinerary.
There are also plans to look into the more artistic side of New York, including the Theatre and Arts Districts.
Shilcutt, chair of the Department of History and faculty attendee of the trip, said the students will encounter the “vitality, vibrancy and violence of this 19th century city.” Shilcutt said students will also explore the history, legends and myths of New York City first hand.
This particular trip focuses on using the city as its textbook, providing the students with a unique look into the city as it was back in the 1800’s.
The travelers will be based out of Queens, or Long Island City, and each day the students will venture into Manhattan.
“As the students engage the city as text, we are confident they will come away from this experience with a better understanding of the wide social canvas of New York City,” Shilcutt said.
At this time there are still a few spots available, each costing $700 per person. Interested Honors students should contact Harbour as soon as possible, as the registration process closes on Friday.