Written by Sunny Sun (Class of 2028), Miranda Wang (Class of 2028), and DVGS Editorial Team

On April 8th, 2026, a group of DVGS students embarked on a four day trip that blended cultural and academic exploration. Rushing to the airport after school, the students boarded a plane headed for Los Angeles and landed late at night, exhausted but delighted; the days ahead would be filled with unforgettable memories

From the bustling student center at Pitzer University to the quiet study corners at USCs, students witnessed firsthand the many different aspects of college life, sparking many new ideas and conversations about the myriad of possibilities that lie ahead. IGDVS alumni, Jaimie Yu, a rising senior at Pitzer, testified to this, as she shared her excitement in studying and researching neuroscience, and exploring graduate studies and a career. The subsequent introduction to the Claremont Colleges also enlightened the students about the many details of the application process – college was now one less step away. In fact, the students’ airbnb, steps away from USC, is the perfect immersion into the college vibes, and a bowl of late night ramen!

The next stop included famous museums, namely the Getty Museum, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The inspirational art pieces deeply impacted many of the students and brought to them a deeper appreciation for both the art and the artists. Others were attracted by the sprawling gardens and beautiful scenery, heading under the warm rays of sunlight to view the flowers up close. Regardless of their destination of choice, these visits awakened a newfound curiosity in students that allowed the students to view art through a more personal lens.

The students also met up with two alumni, Tony Yap, a graduate student at Caltech studying the stars and space, and Makela Yepez, a Hollywood star (the students regretted forgetting his autograph), for a casual yet meaningful vegan lunch. Over the course of the meal, they shared candid reflections on life after graduation – the challenges they faced, the unexpected joys they discovered, and the lessons that shaped them. It was more than just a reunion; it was a living reminder of the enduring bonds forged within the IGDVS community and a source of true inspiration for the students beginning to chart their own paths.

The journey took a turn from exploration to wonder and excitement as the students arrived at the Universal Studios. There, they explored beloved landmarks, from the behind-the-scenes magic of the Studio Tour to the enchanting streets of Hogsmeade. They tasted butterbeer (non-alcoholic), and ate chocolate frogs, vegan corndogs for lunch, and pasta for dinner. The adrenalin rides left everyone breathless and full of laughter, and even the long waits for rides were over in a blink of an eye elicited no complaints. The evening was filled with yet another climax with a Walt Disney Concert Hall LA symphony performance!

All in all, the trip was far more than just a getaway – it was a rich tapestry of discovery, connection, and joy. From college tours that made the future feel tangible to art that stirred something deep within to the collective exhilaration of a theme park adventure, every moment left its mark. The students returned with broadened horizons and hearts full of gratitude.