Travel isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about collecting quirky stories, savoring questionable local food, and realizing that Google Maps can be both your best friend and your worst enemy. Whether it’s a road trip that turns into a series of wrong exits or an international adventure where you accidentally order something you can’t pronounce, every trip leaves its mark.
I spoke with a lively crew of travelers who each have their own perspective on the transformative power of travel: Kimberlyn Forest, a wide-eyed freshman; William Calloway, a junior with big-city dreams; Farrin Blair, a fellow junior plotting her escape to France; Hailey Harwood, a wise senior with a love for the mountains; and Syblie Boyd, another junior with fascinating thoughts on water quality. Each of them has a unique take on travel—some crave adventure, some just want to vibe, and others seem ready to pack up and move entirely.
Kimberlyn, our fresh-faced explorer, has traveled to many states, but Estes Park, Colorado, stole her heart. “It’s really like… it’s gorgeous, and the weather is really nice,” she said, proving that scenic views and breathable air can make a lasting impression. Hailey, our mountain-loving senior, echoed her sentiments: “It has the mountains, and I really like it.”
Then there’s William, our junior with a taste for the bright lights and chaos of the big city. “I definitely want to go to places like Las Vegas and New York,” he said. We can only hope he’s ready for the chaos of Times Square at rush hour. Meanwhile, Farrin, our jet-setting junior, has already crossed the pond to France and fully intends to return—maybe even permanently. “Probably France again… I’d like to get a job there,” she mused. Looks like the Eiffel Tower might be gaining a new resident.
National parks also made an impression. Farrin, ever the adventurer, is obsessed with Zion National Park. “It’s wild… I love hiking, and it’s just such an amazing place,” she said. Meanwhile, Syblie, our junior with an eye for environmental differences, had a fascinating observation about her trip to Alabama: “The water was different… I noticed how things changed depending on where you are.” Yes, Syblie. Water does, in fact, vary.
William, flexing his international experience, casually mentioned that he’s been to Germany. For the record, that makes him one of the few in the group to have made it beyond U.S. borders.
Travel often leads people to question where they truly belong. Some fall in love with new places and start browsing Zillow listings in foreign countries, while others return home with a new appreciation for their own hometown. Farrin is firmly in the “I’d totally move” camp. “I’m not quite sure yet, but I want to make sure I have opportunities there,” she said of her plans to move to France. Kimberlyn, however, is content where she is. “It has a really good community, and honestly, the weather is not that bad.” Meanwhile, William gave Missouri credit for convenience: “If you need to go anywhere, it’s not an insane drive.” A glowing review indeed.
Of course, not every trip is magical. Syblie had a rough time in Kentucky: “It was just a bad experience… it rained, and everything went wrong.” Classic road trip chaos.
Even with occasional travel disasters, everyone agreed that the experience teaches valuable lessons. Hailey summed it up well: “It helps me appreciate the country I live in and learn about different cultures.” And when it comes to company, there was no debate—traveling with friends is always the way to go. “With friends, because it’s never boring,” Syblie said, likely recalling at least one chaotic road trip moment.
Whether it’s wandering through cities, climbing mountains, or simply trying to figure out what’s in the mystery dish you just ordered, travel always leaves an impact. So, where to next?
