An essay about American history became the beginning of a special learning experience for a group of Freedom Alliance scholarship students.
As part of Freedom Alliance’s America 250 initiative, scholarship applicants were invited to write about a moment in American history they wished they could have experienced firsthand. The students’ essays sparked an idea: bring together scholars whose writing explored the Civil Rights Movement and give them an opportunity to experience some of the history they had studied.
In July, 12 scholarship students traveled to Atlanta for a weekend of learning, conversation and connection.
During their time in Atlanta, students explored historic places throughout the city and learned more about the people and events that shaped its history.
The weekend included a guided tour, visits to historic sites and time to explore the city together. Students also gathered for a roundtable discussion where they reflected on what they had seen, what they learned and what stood out to them.
Several students shared their original America 250 essays with the group, bringing the experience full circle.
The weekend also gave students plenty of opportunities to simply spend time together. From an Atlanta Braves game to dinner and time exploring the city, students built connections and created memories along the way.
For the students, the weekend was about more than visiting new places. It was an opportunity to connect what they had learned through their own research and writing with an experience they could share with their peers.
“Thank you and the rest of the Freedom Alliance team so much for the opportunity to travel to Atlanta and experience the history and culture rooted there. … I’d say this was one of the most memorable trips I’ve taken, and I feel lucky to have been chosen for it.” – Roman Burks, Freedom Alliance scholarship student
Tarrissa Wynder also reflected on the opportunity:
“It was an amazing experience, and I truly enjoyed learning more about the history of the city, connecting with everyone, and participating in the conversations throughout the weekend.”
The Atlanta experience was inspired by the students themselves. Their essays gave Freedom Alliance an opportunity to turn their interest in American history into an experience they could see, discuss and share together.
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, opportunities like this encourage the next generation to explore our nation’s history and consider the stories that continue to shape America today.
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