Teen Ambassadors Travel, 'Set Example'
BY KELLY HINCHCLIFFE : The Herald-Sun
Sep 24, 2006
DURHAM -- Jharrison Gillespie made sure to be on his best behavior this
past summer as he traveled through England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
The 15-year-old Hillside High School student was one of a handful of
Durham students who served as ambassadors with the People to People
Student Ambassadors Program -- a program that provides
international educational opportunities for students.
"It was more than a sight-seeing tour," Jharrison said. "We set an
example for American students to show how people act here. I acted as
perfect as possible so that's what they would think of us."
People to People was founded by former President Dwight Eisenhower to
promote peace through understanding between individual citizens of the
world.
Jharrison and several other Hillside students, including Altrise
Anderson, 16, and William Boler, 15, were recommended by teachers or
People to People alumni to go on the 20-day trip.
William said he did encounter some hostility, especially because he is
from the United States.
"I would be lying if I told you the kids were nice to us," he said.
"Most of the kids thought we were rich Americans."
"We're not as bad as they think we are," Altrise added.
But the students worked to overturn those negative impressions by doing
community service, playing sports with the locals and experiencing the
culture.
"Some of the most memorable things we did were rafting and castle
rappelling, but the real life experience was the best," William said.
The students also visited Shakespeare's birthplace, took a boat ride on
Loch Ness in Scotland, watched dogs herd sheep and cut down trees that
were spreading too quickly for a community service project.
"Words can't express how much we did," Altrise said.
The overseas trip wasn't free. Each student had to raise about $6,000 to
go. Most students turned to family and friends to collect the money,
while others sent letters to community members and organizations.
By the time the 20 days of travel were finished, some students were
ready to return to the states.
"I was glad to be home," Jharrison said.
