As the end of the Apogee summer approaches, it is with heavy hearts that we write one of our final blog posts. Tomorrow our last kiddos will take off around the globe, and we had many say their goodbyes today. We would like to take this time to sincerely thank you, our readers, for your constant support and commitment to this daily published piece of literature. We would be nothing without you (and your kids!). The end of the summer is bittersweet, as it is sad that our trips are coming to an end, but we are amazed and inspired by what our students accomplish. Today is no exception!

Skip to a Specific Trip: MCJA, MCJB, NEMCA, CS, MCCE, MCP, MFT, DEXA, DEXB, VMA, VMB, CRLS, CRMC, CMCA, CMCB, NWXA, NWXB, PCA, PCB, SH, AXA, AXB, ACC1, ACC2

Maine Coast Junior (MCJA)

Our last full day for the awesome Maine Coast Junior team! They spent their morning doing a community service project at the local Harpswell Community Gardens. After getting their hands dirty, they clean up and hit the town for their final, celebratory dinner. Well deserved!

Maine Coast Junior (MCJB)

A fun-filled last day for this team! They spent the morning flexing some new muscles – this time, by boat! They paddled around Casco Bay exploring the unique shorelines of coastal Maine. They had a barbecue and explored Wolfe’s Neck farm where they were delighted to meet a baby cow that was born as recently as last night. Too cool!

New England Mountains & Coast A (NEMCA)

Our NEMCA squad gave back to their local community this morning by helping out the rangers at Wolfe’s Neck State Park. They helped with some trail maintenance before getting cleaned up and prepared for their big, celebratory final dinner!

Caribbean Service (CS)

It’s the final night for Joe & Nicole’s Caribbean crew! The CS team left their accommodations on the beautiful island of Vieques today, taking the ferry back to the main island. They went in to San Juan to explore the old town and will enjoy a final dinner together before heading home tomorrow.

Maine Coast College Essay (MCCE)

Essays in hand, Alex & Nick’s crew parted ways today. We hear it was tough to say goodbye after such an amazing week! Best of luck in your college search, MCCE team!

Maine Coast Photo (MCP)

Today the Photo crew headed to an iconic Maine beach to enjoy their last full morning together, and then had their final art show in downtown Boothbay Harbor, showcasing some of their work from their time together for the community to see. Tonight – a celebratory dinner!

Maine Farm to Table (MFT)

Time to clean the dirt from their fingernails and relax and celebrate! Today the MFT team spends the morning sea-kayaking the majestic Maine shores in Casco Bay. Tonight for their final dinner they went to (you guessed it!) a farm for their final dinner. They’ll eat a local taco feast in a beautiful, renovated 19th-century barn. What a fitting way to wrap things up!

Maine’s Downeast Explorer (DEXA)

Today the DEXA crew transited back to the Freeport area, set up camp together for the last time, and head to Portland, ME for some urban exploration and a dinner on the town!

Maine’s Downeast Explorer (DEXB)

Today, DEX B had some quality van time on their way back to the Freeport area – but before that, they appear to have had one of the most beautiful sunrises ever! Wowza! Tonight – a festive evening in Portland, ME to celebrate their time together.

Costa Rica Language & Service (CRLS)

Mark & Eliza’s crew ziplined far above the Costa Rican canopy today, getting marvelous views of the national park below. For their final afternoon together, they shopped and dined in Alajuela and then will return to their hostel for a final night of kudos and goodbyes.

Costa Rica Mountains & Coast (CRMC)

“Hasta la vista, Costa Rica!” said CRMC, as they all hopped on their flights back home today. Always sad to say goodbye to the Pura Vida lifestyle, but the friendships they made and the experiences they shared will stick with them far beyond the two weeks they spent together.

California Mountains & Coast (CMC A & B)

As they say, all good things must come to an end, and CMCA & B are not exempt from the old adage. The gang went their separate ways after two weeks of kayaking, hiking, community service, surfing, and San Francisco exploration. Now, back to real life!

Northwest Explorer (NWX A & B)

So long, farewell! Our Northwest Explorers have airports and goodbyes today. Fond farewells from Seattle after three fun-filled weeks together exploring the Pacific Northwest!

Pacific Coast (PC A & B)

20 days, 600+ miles, two states, and one Golden Gate Bridge later, both PC groups head back to their respective homes. Jack, Grace, Carter, Jessie & Ben were sad to see everyone go after such a wonderful three weeks together. Safe travels, everyone!

Scottish Highlands (SH)

These Highlanders bid each other goodbye this morning – tray tables are up, seat backs are in their upright positions, and great memories are stored in the overhead bin!

Alps Explorer (AX A & B)

After one final delicious meal (and gelato, naturally) together last night, both AX groups said their goodbye this morning. Sam, Zach, Jared & Jeanne are very confused what to do now that they’re without their amazing groups. I imagine they’ll spend the next few days reminiscing about the trip by looking at pictures…