On Wed., Nov. 20, high school students around the world traveled to Washington, District of Columbia (D.C.) to experience a whole new world of Journalism. On the trip students got to visit famous landmarks, memorials and museums in Washington, D.C. The students also got to go to a convention where they attended journalist sessions to learn more about the field of journalism and competed against other journalists in certain categories. According to most of the students, the trip was a dream come true and was an experience they will never forget.

For most students, it was their first time traveling to Washington D.C., but for Journalism teacher Anne Borgmeyer it was a familiar place.

“I have been to D.C. many times. I used to go when I was their age, but I have never taken students to D.C., which made me a bit nervous,” Borgmeyer said.

This was the second time Borgmeyer has taken students to the Journalism Education Association (JEA) convention. She said she believes the experience allows her students to grow as journalists, which is why she decided to come back this year.

“I took a group last year to this convention and they learned so much. It is a great experience and will help students grow as journalists,” Borgmeyer said.

Students have been waiting for this trip for many months and for managing editor Colten Stone, the wait was well worth it.

“It was a trip I will never forget. I got to hang out with some old and new friends and I will always have great memories of this trip,” Stone expressed.

As a third year journalism student, Stone added that it was a new experience that allowed him to meet a lot of new people.

“The fact we got to see all the famous landmarks wasn’t the best part, it was getting to spend four days with my best friends and favorite journalists,” Stone said.

La’Trell Dollinger, member of Battle’s yearbook staff also attended the trip. Dollinger stated that it was his first time leaving Missouri in over 10 years.

“Going into the trip I was so excited to get out of Missouri for a bit and see something new. I’m so glad I was able to step out of my comfort zone and go on this amazing trip,” Dollinger said.

Journalists on the trip attended learning sessions taught by current journalism teachers around the world. Dollinger specifically took classes geared toward design, which he said was useful.

“The convention was great. I picked up some great things about design that I will try to use this year,” Dollinger said.

Kaitlyn Bailey, Addison Gish and Nic Myers placed in their competitions. You can find more results at jea.org.