Washington & Canada STEM Trip - Kylee Calderon

I was asked to write about my experience on this year's FHLA trip to Seattle, Washington, and British Columbia, Canada. Before delving into what I learned and saw on the trip, I want to provide some background leading up to it. The students selected for this trip did not simply receive everything handed to us; we had to work and put in hours of effort to raise the necessary funds. As a group, we organized various fundraisers, such as selling raffle tickets, hosting car washes, selling tamales, and assisting at a car show. Through these collective efforts, we bonded and got to know each other better over time.

Our first destination was the Museum of Flight. I was initially skeptical about visiting, as it wasn't in line with my usual interests. However, I quickly realized how fascinating it was to learn about and observe the diverse range of airplanes. I distinctly remember being amazed by one particular airplane due to its unique construction. They had used what appeared to be a bicycle seat and scooter wheels. The aircraft's design was also intriguing—it was narrow enough to accommodate only one person, yet quite tall. While exploring further, I discovered that only a total of 12 individuals have walked on the moon. This fact surprised me, as I had assumed more people had made such trips. Additionally, I learned that among all 195 countries, the United States is the sole nation to successfully land people on the moon.

As we continued our exploration of the museum, we reached the section showcasing historical military artifacts. I found the various vest designs particularly captivating. Soldiers used to wear these vests, and I was amazed by the diversity of designs, which ranged from donkeys and eagles to the American flag—no two vests were alike. Toward the end of our visit, we stepped into an outdoor area housing a collection of retired full-sized planes. Walking through these planes and observing their construction and usage was eye-opening. I had never realized the extent of the different layouts and designs of airplanes. Notably, the planes once used for presidential transport featured fully equipped office spaces enclosed with glass walls. If I recall correctly, Presidents Kennedy and Johnson were among those who used these planes. After concluding our time at the museum, we headed to the University of Washington. I was particularly struck by the presence of an Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity on campus. Our tour guide, whose name eludes me, shared information about the diverse classes and scholarships offered at the university, including the FAFSA scholarship. As we toured the campus, I noted the balance between numerous buildings and ample green spaces, creating a serene atmosphere. A centerpiece was a beautiful fountain that further endeared me to the university. It's worth mentioning that this university had always been my desired choice, and this visit truly solidified my admiration for it.

After wrapping up the university tour, we proceeded to a baseball game. While not an educational venue, I had the chance to learn about innings, thanks to Rey. I also discovered that the food there was quite pricey yet delicious.

Over the following two days, we visited the Space Needle and Canada. Before ascending the Space Needle, we embarked on a boat tour that took us along the piers and provided historical insights into the surrounding buildings. Upon entering the Space Needle, we encountered displays depicting its construction process. This iconic structure was opened on April 21, 1962, after an 8-month building period. From the observation deck, the views were breathtaking, capturing much of downtown Seattle and the waterfront. The rotating glass-floored lower level was a fascinating feature that allowed us to look directly down. The subsequent day led us to Canada, where the drive was picturesque, although I mostly slept during the journey. Upon reaching Grouse Mountain, I was truly taken aback by the awe-inspiring views. It felt as though we could observe all of British Columbia from that vantage point. Despite our slightly overdressed attire, we enjoyed exploring, riding the chair lift, and shopping at the stores. My personal highlight was encountering the two bears, Grinder and Coola. Following our time at Grouse Mountain, we headed to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The experience involved traversing various pathways and ascending many stairs for elevated views. Despite feeling underdressed, the visit was still remarkable, allowing us to explore this unique location.

On our last day, we visited Microsoft. Our time there involved hands-on exploration of their diverse technologies and the company's history. With various gaming setups, tablets, and computers, it was a truly interactive experience. For those curious, a Microsoft Surface Pro is priced around $1,100.

Amidst all these fascinating experiences, a key lesson I learned was the significant impact of friendships on any adventure. Our tightly-knit group formed strong connections that enriched the trip. The success of our journey owes much to the bonds we forged. In Yuki's van, we often joked with the phrase "No pasa nada," meaning "nothing will happen." Despite the humorous intent, I found a deeper meaning: embracing new opportunities and stepping outside our comfort zones is essential for growth. Speaking of friendships, don't shy away from making new connections, as these relationships can positively transform your life. I made enduring friendships during this trip by pushing myself to be more sociable, and others reciprocated by giving me the chance to break free from my usual awkwardness. So, when facing fear or hesitation about something new, remember, "No pasa nada."

Lastly, I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to Rick, Yuki, and Yolanda for their assistance in organizing and guiding us on this incredible journey. Without your dedication, we wouldn't have been able to undertake this trip. I am tremendously thankful for the opportunity to contribute to and participate in this unforgettable experience.