Summer Break is the day that everyone is waiting for, the hot sun, hanging out with friends, and the best of all, no school. For some summer break is spent at home binge watching the latest hit show add for that month, or friends and the pool, but for others it is about travel and new experiences. Going on a relaxing cruise, or taking their passion and talent to the next level is what summer is all about for these individuals at Baldwin High School.

This summer going on a  relaxing cruise to the Caribbean Islands for eight days is exactly what sophomore Samantha McKinney is doing. She will be exploring the islands of La Romana, Grand Turks and Carosou during the eight days she will be gone.

“I am excited to go because I don’t get to go very often, and I get to leave my home and Kansas for a while.” McKinney said.

When not on the boat relaxing by the poolside, McKinney will be exploring the islands doing various activities such as ziplining and wandering the busy streets and marketplaces. While in La Romana she will be snorkeling the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea. Excited to go Mckinney can not wait to start her new adventure this summer.

McKinney is not the only one having the time of their lives this summer, sophomore Blayne Chapman has big plans for his summer break. Heading up to Michigan this summer, Chapman will be going to the Olympic Development Training, ODT, for soccer, to train and compete with others from their region to make it on the team. If he is able to get on the team his is able to have a chance to try out for the USA National Soccer Team.

“I am really excited, but before I get too excited I am nervous, because I am the youngest in my age group, so I will be competing against people who have a couple years more experience than I do.” Chapman said.

Chapman will be gone for two weeks over the summer, every day he will have two practices. During the practice in the morning they will focus on skills and development, and during the practice in the evening they will scrimmage where college and U.S. National coaches will be watching. Looking forward to this once and a lifetime chance, he is both excited and nervous.

As school is winding down, summer plans are being made. Whether you are planning on going on an adventurous cruise, or advancing your skills in your favorite sport, summer is about doing what you love most and having fun.