Pre-Travel Orientation
We had a full house Friday evening for our mini pre-travel orientation in Madame Spittler's classroom. Thanks for everyone's attendance, involvement (excellent questions and suggestions), and eagerness. I can sense that June 7th can't come soon enough. Although we weren't able to get through the entire agenda--we'll save the impromptu Moroccan Arabic lesson and a more detailed eye of the Student Manual for our JFK layover--the revealing introductions, the detailed review of the itinerary, and the Fez slideshow placed us on solid ground. How incredible was it to learn that Alyssa and Annette--unbeknownst to them until now--are both relatives of Patrick Henry?! And it was also interesting to learn of some of your favorite places that hold special meaning, from the Outer Banks to the Adirondacks, from Mt. Hood to, well, "home". One of my goals is to add "Morocco" to your growing lists. I re-emphasized the importance and fun we can create with this blog, so I look forward to reading your entries pre-departure.
Erin Durkay spoke of the NCS honor code at the outset--and your obligation to keep it while on our trip. As we embark on this North African experience, let's remember that we're doing so as one group, not as individuals; we're doing so as a community of responsible, knowledge-seeking world citizens. With this in mind, let's pledge to maintain our group fiber and outlook throughout the journey. Flexibility, humor, an open mind, and a sense of togetherness will help open new doors to all of us. See you late a.m. at DCA on 6/7.