Article by Phoenix writer Michelle Paszek ’24:
As millions of New Yorkers lay asleep in their beds, over 400 members of the Kellenberg Class of 2024 embarked on the annual Senior Trip, an action-packed three-day adventure at the Disney and Universal parks in Florida.
In the early hours of May 2nd, students gathered in the Kellenberg lobby to meet with their group moderators before boarding bus transportation to either John F. Kennedy International Airport or LaGuardia Airport. From here, groups took one of four JetBlue flights to the Orlando International Airport.
After arrival, students rode coach buses to Disney’s Hollywood Studios where they received park passes as well as a $40 Disney Dining Card to use throughout the trip.
This park features themed lands centering around the Toy Story and Star Wars franchises with popular attractions including the Slinky Dog Dash, the Rise of the Resistance, the Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and the iconic Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
After this fun-filled afternoon, the seniors were transported to the Disney Port Orleans Riverside Resort to check in, pick up luggage, and unwind before the night’s private event at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.
At the waterpark, students were provided dinner with hotdog and hamburger stations that had a variety of condiments to choose from. Seniors could also grab refreshments, chips, and Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream throughout the event.
Students were free to enjoy park attractions, such as the Humunga Kowabunga water slides, volleyball courts, DJ booth, and giant Surf Pool that generated 6 foot waves.
Christopher Kelleher shared, “My favorite memory from the trip would be the first night in the wave pool where everyone tried to form walls against the massive waves.”
The next day, the students woke bright and early to journey to Disney’s Epcot, a theme park celebrating nature, human advancements, and world cultures. Epcot is home to popular rides like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Test Track Simulator, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
In the afternoon, students met at the park entrance to take the Monorail and the Ferry Boat to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, which is known for attractions like the Pirates of the Caribbean Boat Ride, Space Mountain, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and the Haunted Mansion.
Emily Connelly, a life-long Disney-goer, shared that her favorite ride was the Tron Lightcycle Run, a high-speed coaster located in the Tomorrowland-themed area in the park. She said, “It was really fun to try something new and share that experience with my friends.”
On the final day of the trip, the seniors spent time at the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks. With thrilling attractions such as the Revenge of the Mummy, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and the Incredible Hulk Coaster, the parks offered students an exhilarating experience.
James Curry IV, who went on the VelociCoaster, shared, “It was the first time I felt true fear, but beyond that it was fun. I enjoyed laughing at how scared my friend and I were.”
Students were then transported to Mass, which was celebrated by Fr. Daniel Griffin, S.M. He centered his homily around the Lion King film, giving a tribute to Christopher Battaglia and his Simba backpack. Fr. Dan also spoke about keeping the Faith alive in college, quoting Mufasa’s “Remember who you are.”
The seniors ended the night at a private event at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which featured a taco-making station, dessert, and photos with Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Students had access to Expedition Everest, Avatar Flight of Passage, and the Na’vi River Journey rides.
However, all good things had to come to a close, and students returned home on May 5th with unforgettable memories.
