Painting the town!
The Norwin National Honor society (NHS) goes on annual trips to different historical cities. Last year a trip to Boston, the year before a trip to New York City, and years’ past in Toronto, Canada, while this year a trip to Chicago and all that jazz was in order. According to the Norwin Website, “Membership in the Norwin National Honor Society is based upon scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Candidates must have been in attendance for a period equivalent to two consecutive academic years to be considered for inclusion.” Mr. Paul Amic, who also teaches English Language Arts, has been in charge of the society for 21 years and ensures all events run smoothly.
“I always enjoy the trips,” said Mr. Paul Amic. “We do a lot of interesting and fun things. They are always the week before Easter, so it’s a good time of year for a change of pace for a couple of days.”
On the Norwin High School NHS website, you can also find a service hour log. Anyone who wants to apply has to have a total of 15 hours to be successful. Although it isn’t the easiest path and dedication is a must, the students a part of the society consistently work to stay affiliated.
Starting on April 15, NHS sprung the trip off with a long bus ride and upon arrival, caught the sunset at Willis Tower, something to stay away from if you are affected by the unfortunate phobia of heights. That was the extent of the first day’s events, but more was yet to come.
National Honor Society goes somewhere different every year, and the kids get out of school two to three days a week. If you’re interested in a spring fling like that, make sure you keep your grade point average at a 90 or above. Strict standards reap great reward because next up, on April 16, they stopped by Wrigley Field, the home of the Cubs.
The students took a quick tour and then made their way to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Magnificent Mile has gained quite a reputation because of its vibrant shops, mix of restaurants, and beautiful atmosphere.
According to a study done by the Harvard Graduate School of Education shows that having success in academics correlates directly with overall happiness in students.
“I joined NHS because it recognizes the hard work I put into my school work and I get a cord at graduation,” said student Lindsay Reese.
Up next, the students had a spooky Gangsters and Ghosts Bus Tour, a guided tour of Chicago’s gangster past. After, they helped themselves to dinner at Vito’s Vault and went back to the hotel.
On the last day of the trip, April 17, the students toured Millennium Park, home of the famous Bean. The group had to make a stop to take some fantastic photos.
Later on, they stopped for lunch before some of their final destinations.
Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most visited attractions, especially because of its “Flyover Chicago Experience,” which features a ride on a very large Ferris wheel overlooking Chicago.
This being their final destination, the group then took off for home, quite a long journey.
This year, 42 students went on the NHS journey. Next year, you could be one of them if you are a sophomore or above. A way to push yourself and have fun at the same time.
“I always try to have a combination of educational, cultural, and entertaining activities on the itinerary,” said Amic. “I hope that the students learn a little about the city and its unique culture while also having some fun.”
