St. Agnes Student Trip to the Dominican Republic

(From left) Chioma Onuaha, Emily Welter and Maddie Heno on their way to make cement. 

This summer, St. Agnes rising seniors had to complete their 100-hour service projects. One opportunity that was available to them was going on St. Agnes-led service trips. Trips took place in Africa, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Guatemala. 

The Dominican Republic trip lasted 11 days, and 14 students went on the trip. Here, our St. Agnes students would wake up early every day and do a series of tasks for the people living in poor conditions. The main tasks were mixing and laying down cement, and digging trenches for a house's new foundation.

While this work was strenuous, it was also very rewarding. The students interacted with the Dominicans and Haitians firsthand, learning about their different cultures. Students also practiced their Spanish when talking to them. On one day, our St. Agnes seniors led a day camp for the children there. And on another day, took a trip to the beach! 

(From left) Frances Wheeler and Caryle Dierkman digging trenches. 

 

 

Overall the trip was not only a great way to complete the 100 service hours, but also to immerse themselves in a different culture.