The second year of college is an important part of a student’s academic experience and to help students gain the most – they can participate in a program called the Second-Year Transformational Experience Program (STEP).
At Ohio State Mansfield multiple students are currently involved with STEP and in early spring, 10 participated in a regional campus trip to Washington, D.C.
For many students, this was their first visit to the nation’s capital and the first time they experienced a major city – with all of its hustle and bustle – including urban transportation such as the Amtrak train and subway.
“I had never ridden a train before myself, so this was a new experience for me and the students,” said Donna Hight, assistant dean for student life and student success at Ohio State Mansfield.
The goal of the trip was to expose students to careers and opportunities related to law and government, museums and anything else they were able to learn during their visit.
Placed they visited
The trip included visits to major government buildings, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as the Smithsonian museums.
“This was a great experience,” said Loni Hughes, a student from East Cleveland. “I am studying Criminology and Criminal Justice, and have applied to multiple law firms and the FBI for internships. The FBI tour really solidified that it is something I truly want.”