Exeter Students get Big Apple Experience

Students of Exeter College got a taste of the big apple this month as 39 students of the Media faculty jetted off across the pond, drawn in by the bright lights of one of the most revered global hubs for media and entertainment. The students spent five days touring the city of eight million inhabitants, taking in sights ranging from the Empire State Building, the Staten Island Ferry and the Museum of Moving Image in the heart of Queens. First year Creative Media Production student, Ellie Guest said that “Being up the Empire State Building at night really showed that New York is not only the city that never sleeps but the city of lights! It was beautiful and an experience I will never forget.”

The students also took all access tours around two of the most important entertainment venues in the States – Madison Square Gardens and Radio City Music Hall. The former, now home to four individual sports teams, was the stage for the famous 1962 Marilyn Monroe birthday song performed for the then president, Mr John F Kennedy.

Despite delays on arrival due to heavy snowfall and exceptionally long journeys attached to both ends, the students and staff cannot speak highly enough of the visit. First year Media Studies student, Brandon Clarkson said “it really opened my eyes, and I met great people who I never thought I would have befriended, but that was the bonus - sharing that experience with all the great people on the trip.”

The trip was a first time abroad for some, while others are frequent visitors to the states, including faculty teacher and joint trip organiser Kiri Thompson who cites this as her third trip to the big apple. On speaking of the trip she said “It’s widely acknowledged that travel is important for young people, as it gives them insight into other cultures. It helps them to function independently, while taking on adult responsibilities as well as, of course, being good fun.”

The month also saw a second visit by the college’s dance faculty, in two trips that will certainly be most memorable to all involved.