The Brother Martin College Run was back on the road again this year! On the trip were 29 rising juniors and seniors who were joined by Mr. Brad Duplechain, Mr. Matt Lambert, and Mr. Chris Vicknair as they visited various public, private, and Catholic colleges and universities across the United States. Rising senior Hayden Courregé stated that “the college run gives students the opportunity to tour colleges throughout different parts of the country and learn about the admissions process through interactive information sessions and student led tours. The trip does not only comprise of college touring, but fun events like a Cubs game and white water rafting.” Their adventure began by taking a stroll along Beale St., which is the heart of Memphis music, and then by visiting some historical sites such as the Lorraine Motel, which is the site of Martin Luther King’s assassination. Their first college visit was Ole Miss where they made time to take a photo for their Admissions Department. The group then visited Rhodes College in Memphis and took their trip to new heights as they toured the top of the Arch of St. Louis. At St. Louis University, students were greeted by fellow Crusader Alumnus Brad Giacone ’14 who led them on a tour of the university. There was no rest for these Crusaders as they embarked on more fun at Six Flags followed by a meal at Pappy’s BBQ.
Having a little downtime, the Crusaders headed to Chicago. In the ‘Windy City, Crusaders stopped for some Chicago-style pizza at Giordano’s Pizza before heading over to Navy Pier to take a boat tour of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. They even had time to watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. However, it was back to business as the Crusaders headed to the University of Chicago where they experienced a student led tour hosted by Crusader Alumnus Mason Williams ‘15. Then, the students spent time on the campus of Northwestern University. Joseph Bordelon ’18 commented that “the College Run really helped me broaden my horizons for the future and it showed me that there was more than just staying in state for college. It was also a great bonding experience as I got to meet new people who I wouldn’t have ever had the opportunity to talk to hadn’t I gone on this trip.” The remainder of the trip was spent at University of Notre Dame, University of Kentucky, Vanderbilt University, and University of Alabama.
Mr. Matt Lambert ’98 summed up the experience:
“The college run is a great opportunity for the students to travel outside the New Orleans area as well as the South exploring what other universities and cities have to offer. They become familiar with the admissions process and gain valuable experience and insight that will ultimately aid in their college search. In addition to the college information sessions and campus tours, the students also get to enjoy the social aspect of each city such as a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, free time in the city of Chicago, a trip to the top of the Gateway Arch, incredible BBQ at Pappy’s in St. Louis, roller coasters at Six Flags, and white water rafting on the Ocoee. The camaraderie between students and teachers and the memories made on this trip will last a lifetime!”