SEED Scholars are Going Global

“Investment in travel is an investment in yourself.” – Matthew Karsten

According to Rustic Pathways, international travel is a major catalyst in encouraging students to think critically, identify their interests and passions, gain a global perspective, and practice cultural sensitivity.

Gaining exposure to the world at a young age can help to inspire a college major and create a life-long passion. A study by The National Association for Education found that 81 percent of students who traveled abroad in middle or high school went on to pursue a college degree.

At SEED, experiential learning is a core component of our college-prep programming. We offer our students more than 100 experiential learning opportunities each year. In fact, this summer, over 50 SEED scholars traveled to countries such as Brazil, Costa Rica, and Japan to embark on life-changing experiences.

While abroad, our students learn foreign languages, participate in mission-based projects to aid residents, take on new challenges, and build their international networks. These experiences have equipped our scholars with the tools they need to succeed in today’s global economy.

Here’s what some of our scholars had to say about their trips this summer:

Going to Brazil was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were accepted with open arms like we were home; it was amazing!

-          Vincent Jordan (SEED DC ‘20) - Onda Solidária/SEED Exchange Brazil

“The highlight of my time in Japan was the homestay. I had a very good family. I met lots of people that are now my good friends. This experience has encouraged me to meet new people from different backgrounds. I’m so thankful to SEED for giving me this opportunity.”

-          ChrisJonaye Woodland (SEED DC ‘21) - The Experiment in International Living (EIL) Japan

“Brazil is an amazing place to travel...the beaches, mountains, museums, and the opportunity to learn Portuguese! Anyone would love it here!”

-          Keyondre Joyner (SEED DC ‘21) - Onda Solidária/SEED Exchange Brazil

 “My experience was phenomenal! I tried new things and learned so much about Brazilian culture. I also met a lot of cool people who have encouraged me to do different things and get out of my comfort zone.”

-          Antoine Washington (SEED DC ‘22) Onda Solidária/SEED Exchange Brazil

Learn more about SEED’s Experiential Learning and External Opportunities program.  

Welcome Back SEED DC Scholars!

The new school year is officially upon us! The SEED School of Washington, D.C. has moved into the 2019-2020 instructional year with ONE mission, ONE goal, and ONE voice – to prepare our scholars for success in college and beyond. 

One of SEED’s great traditions is the first Sunday move-in day for the school year. Greeting our scholars and their families as they move into the residence halls sets the tone for the academic year. Our entire staff was present this year as we welcomed our returning and new ninth grade scholars. While our students diligently pack school supplies and day-to-day necessities, there is always more that we can do as a community to support them and our boarding program. I hope you will consider participating in SEED’s #BacktoBoarding campaign to help our scholars thrive.

In this newsletter you will also learn more about our scholars’ international travels this summer and discover insight about SEED’s annual College Prep Bootcamp for seniors.  Friends like you make these opportunities possible.

You will be hearing from me throughout the year as we highlight the many facets of our 24-hour educational program that are unique to SEED, including our award-winning arts program. I’m very excited to lift up all of the work we do to close the achievement gap. Stay tuned!

Here at SEED DC, we are centered around seven core values – Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Compassion, Perseverance, Growth, and Gratitude. That last value – gratitude - is one that I hold especially dear because it recognizes that our work would not be possible without our donor community. Thank you and I look forward to staying in touch.

With sincerity,

Mecha Inman

Head of School

College Bootcamp was a Success!

For SEED seniors, the school year began with a bang. On September 4-5, we convened at George Mason University for our annual College Prep Bootcamp.

The goal of our annual College Prep Bootcamp is to provide all SEED seniors with the information they need to apply to, enroll, and persist in college. Key workshops included writing a college essay; choosing a “right-fit” college; applying for financial aid and scholarships; navigating race, equity, and identity on college campuses; and more. The event also provides seniors with time to reconnect with old friends and make new friends to support each other during the school year. 

In addition to learning the ropes of the college application process, College Prep Bootcamp attendees were exposed to experiential learning opportunities. For example, last year they participated in a real ropes course during a trip to Terrapin Adventures in Maryland!

“Through the College Prep Bootcamp for seniors, we provide our scholars with a two-day intensive workshop experience where we dive deeply into key concepts of the college application and submission process,” said Ms. Baker Jones, director of college transition & success. “We set a high bar for our students and give them the direction they need so that someday they can achieve their college dreams.”

Since 2016, over 100 SEED seniors have participated in College Prep Bootcamp. To learn more about how you can help SEED scholars start school year 2020 right, check out our #BacktoBoarding campaign!