By: Olivia Zhang, Helin Wang, Adelaide Clemence, Teresa
Hu
Clemence Youth
Foundation was founded May of 2021 and serves as an outreach for youth to help
build character, take ownership in striving to pursue their dreams, and provide
them with the necessary tools in becoming a person valuable to society. On
August fifth through sixth, CYF brought 80 of its members to Austin. We went to Austin, Texas and explored the city while learning about
its significance in Texas legislation. For many members, this trip
helped deepen their knowledge on how the laws are made here in our great state.
The trip was fun while also being educational and left everyone with great
memories.
Our first stop was
the Texas Capitol building. The foundation first enjoyed a tour of the beautiful
Capitol and learned about Texas history, its past leaders, and even the
building itself. We also visited a courtroom in the Capitol where the
representatives from Sen. Huffman’s office and
Sen. Kolkhorst's office spoke to us about their daily jobs and politics. In the
end, we even got to ask questions. We ended our tour at the Texas Court of
Criminal Appeals and Supreme Court of Texas. There, Judge David Newell and
Justice Evan Young gave us an insight into their jobs. Judge Newell talked
about his experience of getting elected to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals
while Justice Young informed us about the Texas constitution and explained the importance
of researching before voting; he even asked everyone to make an oath to never blindly
vote for a candidate. The visit to the Capitol was both educational and
beautiful.
Aside from the
capitol building, we also went to the University of Texas. Lucy, a member of the Clemence Youth
Foundation, led the group on a tour throughout the school. Her insider knowledge
helped us see a glimpse into everyday life at UT. The campus was so beautiful
and amazing to be in. She took us to the campus library, dorms, and cafeteria.
Her experience of what college life is like at UT made the tour even more
engaging. The trip was a great experience, and motivation to study hard. The
tour was a very insightful experience that everyone enjoyed.
Following the
college tour, we went to the Blanton Museum of Art. We visited four exhibits with
various beautiful masterpieces. The foundation got to explore many forms of art
and expressions. These included sculptures, paintings, artifacts, and various
other displays of art. Students visiting these museums introduces them to fine
arts and educates the public. We also went kayaking at the Colorado River. The kids and adults had so much fun
paddling their own kayaks along the gorgeous water. The river was a great way
to cool off from the terrible Texas heat all day. Having fun with friends and
family truly made the trip a wonderful experience. The boating officially ended
off the Austin trip.
