Event name: Scholars in Philadelphia
Event time and place: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania October 18, 2025
When I applied to go on this trip, I was excited to get to experience the city’s history and culture from more of a tourist lens. My mother’s family has a lot of history in Philadelphia, and I have only ever traveled to the city to visit them. I know about the cultural significance of Philadelphia to black history as a result, but not other cultures. I was really excited for a great learning experience when I realized I would be going.
When we arrived, I enjoyed the opportunity to interact with students from other scholars programs. We played frisbee in a large group to break the ice and got to know people that we would not have met otherwise. I got to learn about all their names, programs, and experiences while waiting for the trip to start. I would appreciate other experiences for all the programs in the future. After that, everyone was split into two groups for the historical walking tour.
The walking tour taught me the importance of Philadelphia to the foundation of America as the first capital. We walked to different buildings of significance, walking through the history of America from rebellion to the development of a new nation to the end of slavery and to a brighter future for black and women's rights and innovation. At the same time we were there, the “No Kings Protest” was going on, which embodied Philadelphia’s rebellious and patriotic spirit. People all over the country took to the streets wanting to protect the democracy which started there, in Philadelphia.
The tour guide also talked about the history of the Quaker community and others seeking religious freedom in Philadelphia is reflected by how multicultural and tight-knit the city is. I saw this aspect reflected my experiences going around the city to the Philadelphia Magic Gardens, which featured mosaics and multimedia art that pieced together the cultures, experiences, and desires of a variety of artists as a reflection of the diversity. I also realized it while posing with the group of friends I made in front of the LOVE statue, symbolic of the city of “brotherly love.”
The day wrapped up with many other unique and exciting experiences from everyone on the trip. The group I traveled with got to see the portal at the city hall, which visited people from New York, Poland, and Ireland while we were watching. In group chat, there was a competition for the best Philly cheese steak picture, pictures from an animal shelter, stories of being invited to a stranger’s wedding ceremony, and more. While the trip left me tired at the end, it was a great learning opportunity that exceeded my expectations.