Benefits to Student Travel
by Joyce E. Pennington

Many students have never stayed in a hotel, never the less knowing the procedures to check in and check out.  Each student will have to take the time to organize their packing list, prepare for the weather and for the various activities noted in the itinerary.  The preparation for travel alone will stimulate each team member to think independently and assume personal responsibility.

Next the students will have to prepare for meals and personal expenses not included in their package.  They will have to budget their money so that it will not be depleted before the end of the trip.  They will need to figure tax and gratuities at each meal and make wise food choices (we hope!).

As they prepare for the contest or performance day, they must pack their day bags with all costume and prop pieces and inventory each item as it is going in and out.  They will also need to remember hair care items and makeup that will be required for their performance.  If they are wise, they will also pack a back up to tights, socks, hair scrunchies, safety pins, trunks and more.  This way if an item is lost or misplaced (as it can do in a room of four girls), there will be a back up.

Students will also learn courtesy and poise as they are introduced to new people and greeting those who are in charge of the event.  They should speak confidently when introduced and extend the courtesy of a hand shake when meeting special persons.

They will also learn to not be so co-dependent on parents and boyfriends when they are away from home.  Long distance phone calls can become very expensive and many times the hotels will incur additional service charges.  Students should be encouraged to write post cards to home and save money for a special souvenir from the trip.

Directors should try to plan a special educational stop on the trip.  This could mean a performance at a children's hospital or nursing home, a visit to a historical site, or a special dance or theater related workshop with a local artist/instructor.

As the students check out of the hotel, they will assume responsibility for personal charges such as room service, phone calls or movies.  Many times the directors will have these services blocked on the rooms as the bill could soar to un-affordable heights!

When students return back to school, have them write down ten things they learned that they did not know or experience prior to the trip.  You will be amazed at the invaluable lessons learned through travel.  So choose a destination that will motivate your team to work harder throughout the season and reward them with a delightful and interesting performance or contest trip.