San Diego STEM Trip - Mariah Longest

Hello, my name is Mariah Longest and I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the FHLA STEM trip to San Diego along with a group of wonderful students. I am extremely grateful for this experience and the many meaningful memories it created.

Before the trip we all had to fundraise to raise money for the trip. It was our responsibility to raise money for the trip. We paid for our tickets for the city pass and the Sphere. The rest of the money was used as spending money to buy souvenirs and anything else needed. We sold tickets for a Dutch card raffle, we sold tamales, and we sold hot dogs at the fourth of July celebration at the Wilder Park. Thank you to Arcadio Puga and Simplot for sponsoring!

One of the most main memorable parts of the trip was our visit to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). We received a guided tour of the campus, where we learned about its history, its development over the years, and the significance of several landmarks and sculptures on campus. Our group also visited SeaWorld, where we had the chance to see marine animals up close. This experience was a fun and engaging way to connect with nature and our fellow students. including Rick and Mrs.Yuki, who were incredible throughout the trip. Another great experience was touring the USS Midway, a historic aircraft used in the 1900s.We explored many parts of the ship, including the upper levels, and learned about its military history through a wonderful, guided tour.

We also had the opportunity to visit The Sphere in Las Vegas, where we viewed a visually great and powerful film focused on the beauty of life on Earth and the importance of taking care of the world, and how we shouldn't take everything for granted. While every part of the trip was meaningful, my personal favorite was visiting the USS Midway found the history enjoyable, the tour guides engaging and making everything fun, and truly enjoyed sharing the experience with my peers.

Overall, this trip was incredibly educational and enjoyable. I'm truly thankful to have been a part of it and will carry the lessons and memories with me moving forward in life. I am grateful I was able to meet these students I was able to meet. Moving forward I will continue meeting more people, and I will continue growing my knowledge. Thank you to Luis Caloca and Rick Godina for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.