Student Comments

 

The International School for Earth Studies provides a unique environment for teenagers to build a foundation upon which to develop their vision through courage and inspiration

“What ever the mind can conceive, and believe, it can achieve”.

 

Student Comments

Kate (KS-USA)

Interim Experience - Winter, 2006

 

I was lucky in that I got to spend a month and a half at ISES with the Cushing clan. I had originally planned on going to ISES as filler between other programs on my interim year between high school and college and, upon my arrival in Canada , it evolved into so much more. The Cushing's welcomed me into their home and involved me in every aspect of their life, from snowball fights to political debates, and my time there far exceeded my wildest expectations.

 

The Cushing clan immediately immersed me in their way of life. I admit, I did feel a touch overwhelmed when Kirk started introducing me to the seeming endless animals; I never thought that I would get all of the dogs' names right! But all six family members and their animals welcomed me easily into their life. Kirk and the girls certainly liked getting help with the animals and Derek and I enjoyed many a bantering debate.

 

The family easily embraced me and then taught me so much simply by being themselves. I learned more about Canadian politics that I had ever dreamed merely by listening in on the family dialogues about the Canadian national elections and more about Canadian history and national dynamics through the same method. Everything I learned I learned holistically and in a very interactive and hands-on manner. I learned about dog sledding and sled dog care by doing it. I discovered how to dress for the cold and how to have really fun and safe winter hikes by doing it. Almost everything I did taught me something new either about the land, the people, the animals, or myself.

It's interesting to look back and reflect on my time at ISES, because I did not truly realize just how much I was absorbing from the family and their environment whilst I was there. That is the beauty of ISES. If you go to the Cushing's' with an open mind and a willing heart, you can learn an incredible amount just by interacting with the plethora of animals, exploring the land, and conversing with and enjoying the family. I would recommend ISES to anyone and I wish that everyone could have the chance to spend at least some time in such an amazing place.