Brain Power students, ages 13 and up, competed in an essay writing competition in order for a chance to win a week-long, experiential learning retreat to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia!

In the summer of 2014, Brain Power students, ages 13 and up, competed in an in-house essay-writing competition in order for a chance to win a week-long experiential learning retreat to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia! The purpose of the trip is to introduce students to authors, artists, and the local maritime culture. Through this trip, students, many of whom were venturing beyond their home region for the first time, developed an understanding of differing Canadian cultures and lifestyles and the importance of diversity in the tapestry of human society – and honed their writing skills and communication skills each day.

Entrants of the contest were given copies of The Fiddletree by famous Nova Scotian luthier, Otis Tomas. It is about the process of building a violin from the wood of one maple tree that Otis himself cut down 17 years ago. Participants of the contest were asked to choose one of five essay topics on the book, and then compose an essay of a maximum of 750 words. All essays went through two rounds of judging. Twenty entries were picked by the staff of Brain Power, and were sent to Otis Tomas, who picked the eight contest winners.

During the trip, the students participated in many different activities, including kayaking and hiking; learned new skills, such as problem-solving and leadership; as well as enjoyed their beautiful surroundings.