even more impactful for me , and I ’ m so glad I got to share that .”
Just like The Canterbury Tales , judges evaluate stories during the pilgrimage . For these students , their judges are members of the College Counseling Team , which , in itself , is a beautiful , full-circle moment for students and the team that has walked with them through much of their Upper School experience . This team judges based on the quality of storytelling rather than the content itself , and the winners of the Senior Pilgrimage receive a free dinner , another parallel to The Canterbury Tales . However , instead of a medieval meal at the Tabard Inn , these students enjoy a classic dinner at Barbara ’ s Home Cooking .
Another member of the Class of 2024 , Corbin Songer , says , “ Learning how to tell a personal story and develop my unique voice made Senior Pilgrimage an inspiring activity . I really enjoyed Ms . Christensen ’ s class , where I learned storytelling skills .” Corbin ’ s story , which transported him and his peers back to Ms . Teller ’ s kindergarten classroom , was one of the winning stories , along with Marlee and others .
Christensen says , “ This assignment helps students discover more about themselves and others at this critical juncture in their lives . Through storytelling and the development of personal voice , students find a sense of belonging , craft their identity , and reflect on how different experiences have shaped who they are .” She added , “ Furthermore , where we start isn ’ t where we end . This activity just gives them a touchpoint in their journey .”
Marlee says , “ In Ms . Christensen ’ s class ,
“ This assignment helps students discover more about themselves and others at this critical juncture in their lives . Through storytelling and the development of personal voice , students find a sense of belonging , craft their identity , and reflect on how different experiences have shaped who they are .”
she is here for what you bring to the table . She teaches us how to tell stories no matter where we are . Through her class , I ’ ve become a better writer , and I ’ m now headed to the University of Alabama to major in News and Sports Broadcasting . I hope to tell many more stories in the years to come .”
Christensen speaks truth into her class , reminding them God is the ultimate Author . Even if it isn ’ t always the cast of characters or the setting we get to choose , we know God weaves our stories together for His glory and our good .
CPALIONS . ORG 29