Last June, the students from the Spanish class embarked on a three-week trip to Spain. During their visit, they explored various Spanish cities and spent ten days residing with a host family. This immersive experience allowed them to live and engage deeply with Spanish culture. Daniel McGrath, one of the teachers who accompanied the 12 students from Park High School, described the trip as a unique experience that fosters personal growth and offers valuable insights into cultures distinct from those with which the students are familiar.

Junior Ben Vermillion, who participated in the exchange, describes it as “a unique and fun experience in which I met many people and helped me grow as a person and be more independent”.
This is something with which many parents do not agree, as they do not perceive these experiences as beneficial for their children. However, Ben’s parents, Dan Vermillion and Lynn Donaldson, believed that the trip to Spain would be an unforgettable experience for their son, providing the opportunity to explore new cultures, adapt to Spanish customs—such as the eight-hour time difference, which the student found most challenging—and connect with individuals from another country.
Spain presents a markedly different environment compared to the United States, not only in terms of culture but also in its architectural styles. McGrath was particularly struck by the distinctive buildings in Seville and Córdoba, two Andalusian cities in the south of Spain. These cities are renowned for their monuments, which exhibit a rich variety of architectural styles, including Baroque, Renaissance, and influences from the Jewish heritage. Additionally, the Spanish teacher was notably impressed by the friendliness of the local people. According to Vermillion, this experience is highly recommended for all students who have the opportunity to undertake it. He believes that participants will not only have an enjoyable time but will also gain substantial mental, cultural, and linguistic growth.