Branson, MO - September 2023
- Cultural Compass
- Jan 20
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 23
Contributor: Wyatt Thompson
Since the day we entered the class group chat, we could not wait to see each other in-person. On orientation day, that excitement soared when we discovered the destinations where we would be traveling. When I learned that we would be going to Branson, MO, I was overjoyed and I could not wait to get to the airport three months later. On the morning of departure, I could not wait to board my flight and meet all of my peers in-person. Over a year later, I recognize how this was not only a fun trip, but it was also filled with opportunities to gain practical knowledge and skills.
Airports – Layovers Are Not Terrible
Since we were flying into a regional airport, we needed to change planes. The last time I had a layover was when I was two years old, so this was going to feel new to me.
I pictured the experience being complicated and inconvenient, so I expected to dislike changing planes. As I was leaving the plane, the app said I had only twenty-nine minutes to board. I had one thing on my mind – get to the next gate ASAP!
I made it to the gate just as they began boarding. After I sat down in the plane, I realized that it was not nearly as bad as I imagined. In fact, I was actually looking forward to having layovers on other excursions so that I could make a connecting flight with my peers.
Planning Team – Managing Expectations
For this excursion, I served on the Planning Team. I collaborated with two of my peers conducting research on quintessential local attractions. Early into the planning process, we were given a budget of roughly $20 per person per day to practice the skill of planning for a large family on a small budget. With only three days to explore Branson, I was concerned we would be unable to visit memorable places.
On the day we arrived, we explored the Bass Pro Shops next to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium. This specific location is by far my favorite of all the Bass Pro Shops I have visited. There are so many rooms and exhibits to see. This was also the very first time that the entire class was together under the same roof. So, it will always have a special place in my heart.
On the first full day of exploration, we attended a show at The Dutton Family Theater. It was a fun, family-friendly, faith-based show that I would love to see again. That evening, we ate at Pasghetti’s Restaurant, an immersive dining experience with a fun atmosphere that transports guests to various places in New York City.
On the next day, we visited Top of the Rock where we toured the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, took an adventurous golf cart tour through a cave, and watched the sunset ceremony over Table Rock Lake. This was an absolutely stunning experience.
On the last night, we went into downtown Branson and shopped at the Branson Landing where we watched the Branson Landing Water & Fire Show. This is a great place for all who love to shop and enjoy nightlife.
As I look back on the itinerary, I am grateful for practicing the skill of planning for a large family on a small budget. I was stretched and challenged to choose activities I would not necessarily do on a trip. I ended up having so much fun in this area of the country, especially traveling alongside my wonderful peers. In the end, we planned a memorable itinerary and I definitely would take this trip again in a heartbeat!
The Peer Dynamic – A Continuation of the Challenge Classroom
If you as the parent are wondering if you feel like your child will get connected and be cared for by their peers or if you as the student want to know what student life is like, this is the section for you. Students who are more extroverted will be able to make instant connections while those who are more introverted, like me, will slowly cultivate relationships.
As we were settling into our vacation house, I decided to sit on the porch that overlooked Table Rock Lake. Eventually, some others came out and joined me at the table. At first, we began casually talking to get to know each other. But then, the conversation developed as the Holy Spirit led us to discover more about each other, such as the styles of our churches and personal beliefs.
Although we had been on a group chat for several months and spent a few weeks together in community, we still had much to learn about each other. This genuine conversation was a beautiful way that we could ask questions out of curiosity and respect each other regardless of the answer. This was one of the many ways I experienced authentic Christian community during my travels in Odyssey Leadership.
Final Thoughts
The Branson Excursion was truly a memorable trip. Although I was expecting a difficult experience changing planes, having a layover was surprisingly straightforward. While it seemed that $20 per person per day would make planning a memorable trip challenging, having a tight budget stretched me in a way that focused on quality local attractions that were unforgettable. Lastly, the sweet, Spirit-led conversations I had were lovely depictions of authentic Christian community.
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