Retreats and Trips
Student committees work with Park Faculty Scholars and staff to plan and organize class retreats and learning laboratories. Each Park Scholar takes a leadership role in organizing one of these trips or other class activities during their time at the university.
Learning Laboratory I
Learning Laboratory I is an annual experience designed and implemented by Park Scholars in the freshman class. This educational program allows students to learn about leadership through the exploration of an issue facing the state of North Carolina. The Class of 2016 traveled to sites in Boone, Pittsboro, and Raleigh to study the theme of energy innovation in North Carolina. Students interacted with leaders across the state currently involved with developing conventional and alternative energy solutions.
Learning Laboratory II
The Learning Laboratory II field experience allows students to develop a critical understanding of national and global issues by interacting with leaders immersed in these issues. The Class of 2015 visited Washington, D.C. to explore the impact that an average citizen can have on policy-making decisions at the federal level. Through focusing on areas including the media, advocacy, and the legislative process, students gained a deeper understanding of how citizens can influence their government. Park Scholars participated in conversations with individuals representing organizations and government entities such as the Center for Public Integrity, PolitiFact, the Supreme Court, and the United States Congress.
First-Year Retreat
Prior to the start of the academic year, each new class of Park Scholars travels to the Blue Ridge Mountains to participate in a retreat. Park Faculty Scholars facilitate discussions on a shared reading experience. Upperclass Park Scholars work in small groups to prepare the class to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded by the Park program and NC State. The class also participates in challenges, both on the ground and on high ropes, which hone skills such as teamwork and communication.
Senior Retreat
The senior retreat is one of the culminating events during the final year of the Park Scholarships experience. Each year, the senior class of Park Scholars selects one of America’s national parks as the setting for their retreat. The experience provides class members with a unique opportunity to reflect on their time in the Park Scholarships program and at NC State, while establishing priorities for the future.
Learning Lab II:
Washington, D.C.
The Class of 2015 visited Washington, D.C. to explore the impact that an average citizen can have on policy-making decisions at the federal level. Their trip was especially eventful since it took place in the weeks leading up to the 2012 general election – the first presidential election in which these students could cast their ballots.