Emily Johnston, a sophomore here at Galway High School, is going on a People to People Student Ambassador trip this summer.

People to People is an organization that was started in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Their mission is “to enhance international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural, and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of ideas and experiences directly among peoples of different countries and diverse cultures.”

I have been on two People to People trips myself. I went to London and Paris back in 2014 (I wrote an article about my experience). Last summer I went on another one to England, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Switzerland (I wrote an article about this experience too). I plan to participate in some of the adult programs they have.

Emily and I got together recently to talk about her upcoming trip. 

Where have you traveled before?

I have traveled to France, Canada, and numerous U.S. states such as Colorado and Maine.

Why did you decide to go on a People to People trip?

I decided to go on a People to People trip because I want to travel to Europe and found this program to work with my schedule in the summer. I am also interesting in learning more about culture instead of just being a tourist which is one aspect People to People can provide.

Where are you going on this trip and how long is it for?

My trip is going to Rome, Paris, and London. The trip is for 12 days.

What are you looking forward to the most?

What I am looking forward to most is traveling to countries I have never visited before and being able to visit famous landmarks. I am also looking forward to learning about new cultures.

What city or country are you most looking forward to?

I am most looking forward to visiting Rome because I have never been there before and we are visiting the Colosseum and Vatican City.

What kinds of activities will you be doing?

We are visiting many landmarks such as the Colosseum. We are also  visiting many art museums and meeting a former member of the British Parliament to name a few.

What have you been doing to prepare?

I have bought French and Italian dictionaries and I have watched some videos provided by the program. I am researching places I am visiting on my trip to understand the significance of these places.

Here is a link to learn more about the trip…

https://www.peopletopeople.com/itineraries/capitals-of-europe-london-paris-rome-2019/

Can’t wait until she goes on her trip so next school year we can hear all about her experiences!