New International Students Experience Boston’s History and Culture

10/14/2026

History, harbor views and a taste of Boston’s famous food scene made for a memorable weekend for Masters’ new international boarding students.

View a Photo Gallery of the New International Students' Boston Trip

The annual trip is a rite of passage, giving the 28 students a chance to get to know one of New England’s historic cities and one another. They explored the USS Constitution, visited the Old State House, sampled Italian fare in the North End, and hopped aboard a duck boat (a vehicle that gives tours on both land and water) for a different view of the city.

The students, who hail from countries including China, Germany, Serbia, Mexico and Korea, were accompanied by Abdoulaye Ngom, dean of global studies and upper school languages teacher; Penny Peng, associate dean of global studies and upper school Mandarin teacher; and John Price, upper school counselor.

For Blanca Vazquez Del Rio ’29, of Madrid, Spain, the trip provided an opportunity to bond with her peers. “What I enjoyed most about traveling to Boston was talking with people that I have never talked with before.” She shared that the transition from home has been smooth, thanks to the warm welcome she has received from the Masters community.

“What I appreciated most was meeting new students and seeing some of them experience Boston for the first time,” said Price.

He added, “It allows them some time to get off campus and explore a new city with significant American history. They also have an opportunity to connect with other new international students in a more relaxed and casual atmosphere.”

Ngom underscored the importance of these early connections: "They help create a strong support system, making it much easier to handle culture shock and homesickness."