For the last seven years, I have had the opportunity to lead students on trips through 3 continents: Europe, Asia, and Latin America. And when I tell people I travel with students, people’s first reaction is typically bewilderment. They ask questions and have comments like:

After teaching history for 10 years and focusing on the why of history, I thought I would share 3 reasons why I like to travel with students.

1. At school, I am confined to the 4 walls of my classroom. When I go on trips, the world becomes my classroom and I have the chance to create a more intimate learning experience for my students. I can lecture on the Colosseum, show videos, even bring in virtual reality goggles to try to help the students understand the subject–but everything I do in the classroom is second to being there. You have to see the size and scope of this magnificent ancient building to truly appreciate it. I love visiting ancient ruins or palaces with my students, and one of my favorites is the Versailles Palace–the former residence of the Bourbon monarchy. I have been lucky enough to go there a couple of times, and I am continually amazed every time I see it. But what I love more now is experiencing the student’s reaction when seeing the palace for the first time. It is such a rewarding experience to help facilitate these wonderful interactions with history.

2. Many of my students have had limited experiences with traveling before my trips. As we become more and more connected through trade and technology, the push to understand the globe has increased exponentially. The buzz word “ Global Citizen” is mentioned a lot–but for good reason. I try to get students out of their comfort zone when traveling. As my group tries to immerse and embrace in another’s culture, the relationships they form and the lessons they learn with the Tour Directors, local guides, and locals have a lasting impact on how they view the world.