Eight students studying A Levels at Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) returned from Hinds County, Mississippi, after being selected for the trip.
The visit was funded via the Turing Scheme, which aims to give learners from diverse backgrounds the opportunity of international travel.
Learners were hosted by Hinds County Community College (HCC), where they took part in several university-style lectures. This also included a video call with HCC students serving sentences in a local prison. 
Learners visited multiple legal and political institutions, in addition to localised court houses, police stations, custody units and private legal offices. They also visited historical and cultural places of interest and also had time to enjoy leisure activities.
The visit included meetings with several politicians, judges and police officers. While visiting the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, they were greeted by Hezekiah Watkins, who at 13 was put on death row and later became the youngest Freedom Rider.
The students stayed with host families where they fully immersed themselves in the Mississippi culture.
First-year law student, Liv Polus, said: “The Mississippi Mobility was one of the best opportunities I have been given. It gave me so many new experiences and memories. It boosted my confidence by speaking and surrounding myself with new people. Every day was different which encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things.”
Karen Crowley, A Level Course Leader who co-organised the trip, added: “It reminded me of the reason I became a teacher: to see real growth and personal development in my students.
“I am forever grateful to the Turing Scheme, which made this visit possible. Without their funding, our learners would never have had this opportunity. I would also like to give special thanks to BTC’s International Projects team, whose support and guidance for this mobility underpinned its success.
“Learners have not only gained a deeper understanding of the historical, political and legal systems of the US, but they have been able to draw direct correlation to what they are learning in their A Level studies.
“They gained an insight into university-style lecturing and met with several political and legal personnel who have inspired them to aim high with their future careers and studies – for example, one of my learners has decided she would love to become a judge!”
For more visit www.btc.ac.uk.
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