On Sept. 28, University Academy’s seniors set off for their annual senior trip. The Class of 2026’s trip was very special, as the four-day adventure was the longest trip in the history of senior trips at UA.
In Nashville, Tennessee, the seniors visited Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Fisk University and Vanderbilt University. They were able to squeeze in a visit at the famous Parthenon in Nashville, as well. In Missouri, the seniors visited University of Missouri-Columbia. The seniors also checked out Harris-Stowe State University and Washington University in St. Louis.
Seniors traveled to these campuses by charter bus. They were accompanied by Ms. Susie Jackson, Manager of Upper School Operations, and Mr. Joshua Burdette, UA’s college counselor. They were also accompanied by two University Academy Foundation staff members, Ms. Tamra Gibson, Scholarships Program Director, and Ms. Maya Tilmon, Alumni Success Programs Director.
Visiting colleges and universities is an excellent way for students to learn more about the college experience and find places that best fit them. Each campus is different in many ways, whether it is the size of the campus, the culture, or even the residence life. These qualities all aid students in making their college decisions.
“The trip impacted my senior year because it gave me a multitude of different college experiences, ranging from HBCUs to more prestigious schools,” senior Cameron McFarlin said.
Students also learned about Greek life at some of the schools they visited.
“I learned some more of the secrets about sororities and fraternities, which is helpful because I want to be an [Alpha Kappa Alpha],” senior Alisa Garrett said.
The senior trip is a way for seniors to bond with their classmates in their last year of high school and make memories.
“My favorite memory from the senior trip was spending more time with my friends and stepping outside my zone, communicating with classmates I don’t usually talk to,” senior Chloe’ Ford said.
While some students learned more about themselves and grew connections, some students also learned how connected alumni are to UA. Along the way, UA graduates were the ones to give guided tours at several different campuses. At the University of Missouri-Columbia, Raven Kemp gave the seniors a guided tour.
On Harris-Stowe State University’s campus, seniors were given college advice from Aidan Smith, Alexis Kemp, Jamiyah Amerison, Keon Johnson, Joshua Harris and Reggie Locke. Alesia McFadden shared her experiences and advice at Vanderbilt University, and Arilynn Howard talked to the group at Fisk University. Briana Tolbert provided information at Tennessee State University.
Garrett said, “I learned how close-knit the UA family really is. I loved being able to talk to alumni.”
The senior trip is meant to be impactful and should leave some lasting impressions on students.
In the end, seniors left the trip feeling thankful for the opportunity that was granted to them. They also came away with extensive knowledge about different universities and colleges.
“I would like to thank everyone who made it possible. It was a great, unforgettable experience for me,” Garrett said.
