They have toured the Michigan state capitol, met the WWMT weatherman, and had the opportunity to fly in a small plane—all while writing a magazine. They are participants in the Tate-Stone Travel Writers Academy for girls.

The girls are leading a structured lifestyle during their week on the Kalamazoo College Campus. “They have been meeting women who have been around the world, including international K students, and speaking with women who have come to K for various opportunities. We are trying to show the girls different perspectives,” said Sonya Bernard-Hollins, a member of the Ladies Library Association and one of the leaders of the academy. The girls, whose ages range from nine to 16, have been videotaping, photographing, and interviewing people any chance they can.

Every morning they head to the Upjohn Library to write short articles and stories on the women they have met the previous day. They are ramping up to create a magazine that will be released in October at Art Hop in downtown Kalamazoo.

The girls are staying in DeWaters Residence Hall on K’s campus. “It’s their favorite part of the program,” said Bernard-Hollins.