John's Story

Hello, Internet traveler! From one traveler to another, I applaud you for finding this rare memorial. This site is a memorial of my discovery of things that have already been discovered. It sounds very Christopher Columbus I know. But I want to go to places — not to stand in a location in which I will probably never return to, but to learn about how human conditions and suffering that is inherent within all of us connect and divide us. It is often said that “life imitates art.” My favorite art is opera, which usually ends with a funeral or a wedding. This essence of life is what I expect to experience. Not just learn the narratives of the successful and selective few, but also the narrative of those who have yet to be unearthed by a traveler before.

“Cogito, ergo sum”

— Rene Descarte

Corey's story

Hi, my name is Corey Huebner and am 16 years old. I am an academic athlete that excels in school and participates in high school basketball and club water polo. I am also a Boy Scout and on the verge of getting my Eagle Scout. I love spending time in the outdoors, camping, hiking, and connecting time with nature. I also love biology and environmental science. I have been conducting my own independent research with my school science professor for over a year now. We are studying micro-plastics in our local South Bay beaches and their effects on the environment and marine life. But most importantly I am a devout Christian follower that prioritizes Christ above all else. I grew up in Alabama and moved to California to live with my aunt an uncle after my mother’s passing. After a tough time in my life, I realized the power of Christ and His immense healing and love. Life isn’t about how many times you fall down, but how many times you get back up.

“Life isn’t a destination, its a journey”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Justin's story

Hi, i’m Justin!

I just graduated 8th grade and am very excited for my year abroad.

Back home, I am a candidate for Eagle Scout and love all things Boy Scouts - especially learning about survival, outdoors, careers, and leadership. I am excited to visit Boy Scout Troops in other parts of the world to make friends abroad who also love scouting.

My favorite sport to play is basketball and my favorite sport to watch is football (especially the New York Giants).

I am excited to learn about new cultures, scuba dive, and other adventure opportunities in far-fetched lands.

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“A ship is always safe at shore but that is not what it is built for.”

— Albert Einstein

Ashlynn's story

“Que Viva Vera”

— French Sage

Hi my name is Ashlynn I am 14 years old. My favorite hobby I enjoy is baking all kinds of desserts and meals. I also like to play tennis and have fun with it. One of the counties I am looking forward to visiting is Paris, France. I have always wanted to visit Paris and see the Eiffel Tower and all the museums. When I grow up I want to be a doctor or a nurse. Thank you for visiting my page.

Ashley's story

Hello everyone, I am Ashley, the youngest traveler in this crazy group.

I just finished 5th grade and am excited for our adventures to come.

Outside of school, I love to draw and write creative stories.

I am most excited for Chengdu, China and to visit the Panda Research Base. Pandas are my absolute favorite animal ever!

“Don’t give up, there’s no shame in falling down! True shame is to not stand up again!”

— Shintaro Midorima