Christabel Narh ’18
11 March 2017
After a long flight from Boston to Baltimore, we finally arrived in Memphis Tennessee exactly one hour behind schedule. After minutes of our failed attempt to obtain a mini-van for our excursions, we finally made the decision to take an Uber to our hotel. Our first interaction with a Tennessean Uber Driver was quite pleasant. He encouraged us to explore Memphis as well as the beautiful 60s and 70s music which constantly reinvigorates the city. go to a music club that played 60s and 70s music.
As the Blues music continued to play in his fraguent-filled car, I knew then that we had definitely arrived in the South. Once we got to our hotel, we got dressed up and got ready to meet up with an ASB Alumna called Sarah to explore Memphis, a city known for its southern delicacies, its buzzing music-influenced night life, and unfortunately, its high income inequality.
After meeting Sarah, she informed us that she had been on the same trip as us just 10 years ago. After college, she had worked as a non-profit consultant and was currently working full time in Memphis for one of her past clients. It was quite fascinating to note that this incredible program had been educating students on Civil Rights for so long. After some time walking around Memphis, she led us to the Beale Dinner to indulge ourselves in the “southern way of life”(food!!). There, we got to learn a little bit more about Sarah. Sarah said she was currently working with an organization that connects young adults to community-based resources that could make them independent and improve the well-being of the vulnerable young adult population. She was inspired to bring about change because of the increasingly high income inequality in Memphis. Sarah story inspired all of us, and her great insight on social needs interventions emphasized the need to learn more about Civil Rights as well as the importance in taking part in public service.
At the restaurant, we ordered a wide away of foods. This included baby back ribs, fried golden shrimp, cheese fries, and more! We indulged further in hot fudge brownie and ice cream dessert. After stuffing our face with some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life, it was finally time to leave. We took a little stroll down Beale Road in the snow and the sight was just incredible. With their open bottle policy, and their incredible night life, Memphis had lived up to their lively reputation.
PBHA Alternative Spring Break Trips 2017 