Adventures in Panama

Over the March break thirteen lucky Preston students traveled to Panama on what many said to be

a "life changing" experience. In preparation for their trip, the Global Outreach team spent many months fundraising. Remember hearing Bieber's "Baby"??? Well the money PHS raised to get that dreadful song off the p.a. system, along with buying treats at the pre-Christmas bake sale, funded the re-painting of 6 classrooms and a library in the small town of Bouquete. "Just knowing that we were helping them was an awesome feeling" said Global Outreach participant Maddie Stymiest. At the school where the team spent 3 of their days, they were accompanied by local kids. This was a highlight for many as special relationships were formed with the children and their days were filled with laughter, smiles and hugs all around. In the end, the group impressed the locals with their stellar painting jobs and positive attitudes.

However, the trip wasn't all work; the group toured Panama City and the world famous Panama canal. They also explored the beautiful town of Bouquet, tucked in a lush Panamanian region full of forested hills, waterfalls and breath-taking views. It was the perfect setting to undertake many adventures and learning experiences such as salsa dancing in the rain forest, horseback riding through a mountain and a thigh sculpting hike topped off with an overnight campout in the pouring rain. They experienced authentic Panamanian food and culture including participating in a native dance. The group bonded over their mutual inability to dance as well as their increasing distaste of the daily pancake breakfast at the hostel. "We worked well as a team" Samantha Griffith explained. Wherever they went, they were consistently being reminded of what a positive and inspiring group they were.

After almost 2 weeks in Panama it was time go home. And so the group said goodbye to the beautiful cities and their breathtaking views and headed back to cold and snowy Canada . Upon reflecting on their time spent in Panama, students were asked about their overall impression of the trip. Popular responses described their experiences as “unreal", "incredible", and "life-changing".

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