Members of the Journal-World Teen Advisory Board spent their spring breaks discovering Quito, Ecuador; soaking up culture in Italy; relaxing on the Oregon coast; visiting family in Arizona and sightseeing in St. Louis and Chicago.

Some traveled for fun, others in search of education. Some went to strengthen family bonds. In almost every case, though, the students said they broadened their horizons and couldn’t wait until their next vacation.

These are some of the photos they brought back, and personal essays reflecting on their time away.