Xavier Abroad

Over mid-winter recess, it is customary for Xavier faculty and staff to lead students on trips all over the globe. This year, English teacher William Martino led a group of 36 students across the pond to France, Switzerland, and Germany for what he described as a “powerful” journey.

“We take the trip to Europe each February break, and each one is different,” Martino said. “What I love most about the trips is watching our boys take ownership of their independence as they explore a new country for the first time. They are fearless. We're thinking about Spain for next year!”

“The trip provided students with a taste of the great culture and history Europe has to offer,” Director of Ignatian Service Programs Paul Wendel added. “The hope is that this instills in them a desire to return and experience more, and a desire to continue exploring the world.”

Paris, Engelberg, Bavaria, and Munich each offered something special. Ice skating at the top of the Eiffel Tower, bike riding in Versailles, sledding ten thousand feet up Mt. Titlis, alpenhorn lessons in Switzerland, and the Dachau memorial, to name a few.

As one group explored Europe, another traveled with science and technology teacher Michael Chiafulio to Costa Rica. The group went rafting on the Sarapiqui River, boating and snorkeling in the Pacific, rappelling in a waterfall canyon, and more.

This trip is open at all grade levels and will be available again next year during February break. Contact Mr. Chiafulio at chiafuliom@xavierhs.org for details.