Upstate New York Elegance: Vassar, Skidmore, and RPI - An Academic Pilgrimage from Buffalo, NY

Trip Overview: Set forth on a 3-day scholarly pilgrimage from Buffalo, NY, designed for students to delve into the rich tapestry of history and contemporary scholastic excellence at three of Upstate New York’s most prestigious institutions: Vassar College, Skidmore College, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). This trip is a beacon for those with a fervor for liberal arts, sciences, and engineering, providing a rare opportunity to connect with the very places that cultivate the leaders of tomorrow.

• Vassar College is an exemplar of liberal arts education, fostering independent and critical thinking amidst its storied buildings and vibrant campus life. It is consistently ranked among the elite liberal arts colleges in the nation, known for its challenging academics and inclusive culture.
• Skidmore College offers an environment where creativity and interdisciplinarity flourish, blending liberal arts learning with practical application, making it a sanctuary for students who treasure a comprehensive educational experience.
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is at the vanguard of engineering and technological education, renowned for propelling the boundaries of research and innovation, and is hailed as one of the premier engineering institutions.

Starting and Ending Point: Buffalo, NY Pick-up/Drop-off Location: Buffalo City Hall, 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202

Itinerary and Highlights:

Day 1: Poughkeepsie, NY – Vassar College

• Morning: Embark on an educational journey through the grounds of Vassar College, gaining insight into its esteemed history and academic life.
• Afternoon: Engage with the artistic legacy of Vassar at the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, celebrating the college’s rich commitment to the arts.
• Evening: Savor local flavors with dinner in the bustling heart of downtown Poughkeepsie.

Day 2: Saratoga Springs, NY – Skidmore College

• Morning: Revel in the spirit and beauty of Skidmore College during an extensive campus tour that showcases its unique character and academic enthusiasm.
• Afternoon: Encounter the fusion of art and education at the Tang Teaching Museum, a space where learning is transformed through artistic expression.
• Evening: Absorb the historical essence of Saratoga Springs with a delightful dinner in its charming downtown sector.

Day 3: Albany, NY – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)

• Morning: Step onto the RPI campus for an exploration of its prestigious grounds, immersing in the aura of technological progress and academic distinction.
• Afternoon: Venture into the EMPAC to witness the innovative blend of media, arts, and performance.
• Evening: Conclude your academic odyssey with an exquisite dinner in the vibrant cityscape of downtown Troy.

Accommodation: Students will enjoy comfortable accommodations conveniently located near each campus, complete with amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a restorative stay.

Transportation: Group charter transportation will be provided from Buffalo, offering a comfortable and seamless journey to each educational landmark.

Total Cost (Per Person): $380

What’s Included:

• Round-trip charter transportation from Buffalo
• Two nights of select accommodations with modern comforts
• Comprehensive tours of Vassar College, Skidmore College, and RPI
• Admissions to the celebrated Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Tang Teaching Museum, and EMPAC
• All meals, featuring local dining experiences in Poughkeepsie, Saratoga Springs, and Troy
• Accompaniment by knowledgeable tour guides for an enriched learning experience

Why This Trip Is Special: This tour transcends conventional college visits, offering a deep dive into the narrative of academic heritage and evolution from historic to contemporary realms. It’s an educational expedition that awakens wonder and potential within students. The tour is meticulously designed not only to inform but to inspire, fostering a vision of the students’ futures within the revered halls of these historic universities.