The exchange programme between Lewiston - Porter High School in the Niagara region in the US and Saint Benoit High School has taken place for the 5th time this year. This project that aims at giving the students an opportunity to get to know the American culture and education system was launched in 2014 through Niagara University.
A cultural an educational experience in Niagara
Saint Benoit students were hosted in a very warm and friendly way from 25 February to 5 March. They lived with their host families, participated in classes and various educational and cultural activities for a week.
One of the most striking experiences was the visit to Fort Niagara which is situated at the shores of Lake Ontario. This fort that was initially built by the French and then was conquered by the English is serving as a museum today and gives marvellous information about its strategic history.
Our students have also had the opportunity to visit the Niagara Power Authority. They discovered how hydroelectrical energy is won by participating in interactive experiments and watching an impressive presentation show.
And then of course there were the Niagara Falls! These falls that are one of the greatest wonders of the world present you with a magnificent view especially in winter. The famous mist turning into ice and snow in the extreme cold form an unforgettable landscape which enchanted our students for a while!
New York: City of Lights and Culture
Before travelling back to Istanbul our students had the opportunity to spend 3 days in New York between 5-7 March and discovered the iconic sights there.
Our students learned a lot about the world’s natural history at the American Museum of Natural History which is one of the most important museums in the world and where “A Night At The Museum” was filmed.
One of the most exciting moments was to see the incredible and breathtaking view of Manhattan by getting on The Empire State Building’s 86th floor.
What’s more, by having a short break at Central Park and Bryant Park they had an opportunity to take a deep breath in the beautiful green areas of the city.
The LED billboards at Times Square offered a spectacular show and a legendary atmosphere. Another unforgettable point in the city was Grand Central station with its nostalgic architecture worth visiting.
One of the most impressive moments was the boat tour around Manhattan. During this trip our students had the opportunity to see the Statue of Liberty.
Unforgettable Memories
This exchange project is directly related to the 3rd theme of our new institution project, “Being Open to the World and Differences” and provides students with a valuable cultural and linguistic experience. By encouraging encounters and interactions, it helps them develop empathy and curiosity towards diversity in the world, while also strengthening their English oral skills in an authentic and motivating environment.
After this experience full of unforgettable memories, our students returned to Istanbul and came back with an even broader horizon.
See you next year for new adventures!
Students’ Comments
“It was one of the most fun school trips I have ever been on. During the two weeks we were there, we had the chance to visit many places and make many friends. During the week we spent in Niagara, we lived a week of their lives; we spent the last few days in New York City and had more fun there than I ever imagined. If you are thinking of going, I would say go without hesitation because it was a very unforgettable trip.”
Zeynep
“For me, it was an unforgettable experience. Every moment was full and it gave me a completely different perspective. Especially the friendships we made and the warm and friendly welcome people gave us made this experience unforgettable. I definitely recommend it to anyone who is thinking of going, because it is a trip where you can have both fun and valuable memories.”
Selena
“It was the most enjoyable school trip I have ever been on and I got to meet so many wonderful people. We visited and saw so many places including Niagara Falls, the American Museum of Natural History, the Empire State Building, Hard Rock Cafe. I really had no idea I would have had so much fun. I definitely recommend everyone who has the chance to go.”
Güliz
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