With the end of the school year looming nearer, many high schoolers are frantically searching for interesting careers. Thousands of choices are presented to the students by hopeful colleges. UW-River Falls, a local college, invited a group of students from Cannon Falls High School, and other high schools, to explore its arts department. Nicolette Hernke,  a CF art teacher, accompanied her pupils on the trip, and when asked to describe it, she explained:  “[The trip] …gives the kids an opportunity to actually do hands-on art projects. It gives them a taste of what it’s like at River Falls.”

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This annual tour has been conducted for over forty years, and is the only hands-on workshop in the area. An art show that displays student work is also included. Logan Olson, a participating senior, said that seeing the college student’s artwork from the area was his favorite part. Smiling, Hernke recalls that one of her pieces was chosen to be in the art show by her teacher. Each UW-River Falls department hosted a different workshop, and many different classes were available. Pottery, painting, silk making and dyeing, and glass-blowing were just a few options.

Both Hernke and the students said they would gladly visit UW-River Falls again, and that the experience was informational and enjoyable. Hernke is pleased that they go on the trip every year, and that she, along with the students learn something new each time.