Term 3: Spring in Asia

My time traveling through South East Asia with MEI was extremely transformative and inspiring to say the least. I have never met such attentive and invested teachers who teach through engaging and passionate narratives and lessons. I felt the perfect balance of being challenged in my ideas and pushed in my learning, yet having the freedom to be curious and experimental in my work while simultaneously developing the tools for success. I got to see things I could only dream about previously: The beautiful temples of Angkor Wat and the booming Pub Street in Siem Reap, war tunnels, breathtaking beaches, and cafes in Vietnam, a huge gold reclining Buddha statue in Thailand, and so much more that I treasure to this day. The social environment created by MEI is not one of a typical high school. MEI preaches inclusivity and family-like bonds in every moment. Because of this, I met my very best friends and formed bonds that have lasted far past the trip itself. I know now, thanks to MEI, that traveling and attaining holistic knowledge about the world is what I want to do for the rest of my life.

Attending this trip was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. MEI had the best locations and had exceptional teachers that delivered an unforgettable experience.The one thing that separates MEI from other programs is the ability to create a family during this short period of time. I’ve met some of my best friends through this trip and created life long memories that I could never forget.

I could not recommend MEI enough. It’s such an incredible growth experience in all aspects of life. You meet AMAZING people, are guided by incredibly passionate teachers and are shown a different way to learn and view our world. I have to say that the biggest thing I gained from that experience was a totally new perspective and appreciation for education. The way the subjects are taught along with the inspirational teachers and destinations make you so excited to attend lessons. You learn to view the world and the people around you in a different way that lights a real and exciting spark of life long curiosity inside you. I didn’t think that feeling was even possible in high school. Still today I carry the lessons I learned. I’m now in university and notice myself using the thinking skills I gained from MEI in my classes. I also still talk to and meet up with the friends I made there who are some of my best friends. I’ll never forget that life changing year!