Two weeks ago, the 10th grade visited the Whitney Museum of American Art. in what was supposed to be a fun and relaxing trip. Since the school got into the Whitney, a museum known for its focus on 20 and 21st century American art, for free, they chose to take students there to help them connect what they learned to Spanish class. But for many students, Whiteney was far from exciting. 

10th graders quickly found out, the morning of the trip, that there was a Spanish assignment waiting for them once they returned. This instantly dropped expectations of the trip, making it seem like an extra class instead. Nobody wanted to go on a trip they had to do homework for.

Then the day began with a short walk to the museum. Once there, the grade got split into groups, randomly. Many groups of friends were separated, making students even less excited. Each group was paired with a tour guide that led them through the exhibits. But, according to Chloe Savage, “the tour felt very guided, and I was hoping we would have a chance to explore other areas, because we were confined to one small space.” 

After analyzing a few pieces of artwork, students were given a worksheet and told to fill it out on their own. By now, students were bored, hungry and had no motivation to fill out another worksheet. Savage shared, “I didn’t want to do it, and it kind of took the fun out of the museum experience.” Instead, most students just ignored the art and had their own conversations instead. 

After around an hour and a half at the museum, it was time for lunch. Lunch was planned to be at the Little Islands, a nice park a couple of blocks away. For most students, this was the most enjoyable part of the trip. Another student, Alessandra shared, ”The Little Island was a beautiful experience as the weather was perfect.” Most students agreed this felt like the break they were looking for. Now, they had time to play tag, hangout, and eat their food.

But after another hour, students had to walk back to the Whitney where they were dismissed for the day. 

The field trip wasn’t completely miserable, but it definitely wasn’t what the 10th graders were looking for. After weeks of stressful exams and homework, students wanted a day to relax with their friends and not have to worry about school. But this trip just felt like another assignment students had to complete. Having the option to choose where the next trip is would make a huge difference, and allow students to actually enjoy themselves and unwind. Otherwise, it’s just another worksheet students have to complete.