Sometimes it is difficult to see what lies beyond WHSAD’s walls. As much as our students get out and get involved, whether community service, internships, clubs, athletics, or many of the other chances they have to work beyond the classroom, WHSAD still is home. But last Thursday, November 30th, a group of juniors, accompanied by their guidance counselor, Ms. Erneste, had the chance to see where they might end up after their 2019 graduation. Exploring both Temple and Philadelphia Universities, students experienced a brief taste of college campus life and toured both universities’ architectural departments. The trip was one of a few students will take this year to further investigate the opportunities that lie ahead after they conclude their learning at WHSAD. Below Milana Baldizzi offers her take on the trip.
On Thursday, November 30th, WHSAD students got to have a little taste of college life when attending a trip to Philadelphia and exploring the campuses of Philadelphia University and Temple University. Both schools are popular universities in Philadelphia: Philadelphia University, a private school, with a student body of about 3,500 and Temple University, a public school, with over 39,000 students.
After a 3 hour bus ride to Philadelphia, students first stopped at Jefferson University. Students, after exiting the bus and stretching their legs, gathered in a small auditorium and were given a presentation on the schools campus, majors, student body, and any FAQ. Students were split into groups of 4 and given tours around the campus. They bonded with their student tour guides and explored the campus, which is a 100-acre wooded campus and home of 52 buildings, including classrooms, laboratories, studios, the Paul J. Gutman Library, resident facilities, an exhibition gallery, and several innovation centers. After the tour, students attended a buffet style lunch and loaded back up onto the bus.

Steven Collado, Jamal Christopher, and Brandon Lopez check out some of the architectural models at Thomas Jefferson University.
20 minutes later students arrived in North Philadelphia, the location of Temple University’s main campus. WHSAD students exited the bus and were comforted by the familiar urban atmosphere and met with their tour guide. They were given a tour around the campus and saw the Fox School of Business, Alumni Circle, Beury Hall, Paley Library, and The Bell Tower. At the end of the tour, students asked any questions they had about the school regarding campus life, tuition, and majors. They were given 15 minutes to explore the campus on their own before meeting back up with WHSAD counselors. Some students decided to branch back towards the popular stores and cafes, while others decided to relax on the benches and public areas that are scattered throughout the campus. After finishing up and doing a head count, WHSAD students loaded back onto the bus and headed back home.