Innovation & Immigration

During this March break trip, students will immerse themselves in one of the oldest and most established Chinatowns in the nation, and some of the most rapidly changing technologies and business innovations in Silicon Valley. Students will have the opportunity to engage with people involved in the tech industry, visit companies and organizations where innovation is happening, and consider career paths in tech and innovation. They will learn how both opportunity and challenge can inspire adaptation, innovation, and creation by connecting with people and hearing their stories. As they come to understand the dynamics and history of immigration in San Francisco, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Chinatown and engage with that unique and thriving community.

While not a pre-requisite of the trip, Chinese language learners will have the opportunity to practice their language skills throughout the program. Students will return to campus with a greater understanding and appreciation for the culture and history of immigration in San Francisco. They will also build an understanding of the dynamic growth of the tech industry, and an appreciation for the ways in which diversity drives excellence in innovation. 

Program Notes

  • Families are responsible for transportation from the San Francisco airport to the student’s destination for the remainder of March break.
  • During this trip students will stay in hotels. Meals will be shared at restaurants and on-the-go.
  • This trip conflicts with the March 12 SAT test date.
  • Students participating in winter post-season tournaments are still eligible to apply for this program.

Program dates

March 5 – 13, 2022

Program Eligibility

This program is open to all students with a preference towards those with a demonstrated interested in tech, innovation, and leadership in a rapidly changing world as well as Chinese language, culture and/or history. All interested students are encouraged to apply by December 6. Financial Aid is available to all qualifying students.

Faculty Trip Leaders

  • TBA

Approx. Trip Cost: $4,450, plus estimated airfare from DA to San Francisco. (final costs will be dependent on trip enrollment)

Deerfield Academy’s Center for Service and Global Citizenship is committed to running all of our travel programs at cost with overhead expenses subsidized by the Academy.

 

Helpful Links

  • CDC guidance on domestic travel during COVID-19

2022 Preliminary Itinerary

*This itinerary is subject to change.

March 5–6

  • Students will stay at a local hotel and will spend time on campus to prepare for their trip.

March 7

  • Departure from Deerfield, MA, flight to San Francisco
  • Program Briefing

March 8-9, possible activities include

  • Chinatown Walking Tour
  • Visit the Chinese Historical Society
  • Explore the Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco
  • Visit Chinatown Community Development Center

March 10-11, possible activities include

  • DA Community Tech and Innovation Visits and Speakers
  • Clement Street Interview Challenge

March 12

  • Design thinking workshop

March 13

  • Program Closing and Flight Home