Imagine boarding a bus at 7am on a Thursday with 20 classmates to visit seven Illinois college campuses in three days. On Sept. 19, the charter bus pulled away from U. City on this whirlwind trip. Deja Bowie, senior, focused on staying awake in order to see what was in store for the tours.

“I was tired and thinking about sleep, since I was up last night trying to prepare for today,” said Bowie. “I’m ready to see what’s out there other than what my mind is set on.”

After two days of visiting Eastern Illinois University, University of Illinois, DePaul University, and Loyola University, everyone was worn out. At the hotel, senior Claire Tschampel bonded with her roommates.

“The first night Drea, Lexi, and I worked out and watched TV,” said Tschampel. “The second night Lexi fell asleep while Drea and I built a fort and listened to music.”

On the last day, after visiting The Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College, and the University of Chicago, everyone prepared to go home. Counselor Mike Beezley shared with the students about how he honestly feltabout the trip.

“The trip was very well planned by Mrs. Johnson and the tour agency,” said Beezley. “I learned what schools strengths and weaknesses are so when students ask me, I can have an answer.”

Finally the students settled in on the bus, trying to get comfortable for the long ride. Sloan Marion, junior, appreciated the opportunity to take the trip and only have to pay $100 since the class of 1963 made a donation to fund the rest.

“I found this trip extremely useful, and it was fun,” said Marion. “I also got a lot out of going to these colleges and I might even apply to some of them. I really want to see what other trips the school will take us on.”