Guidance for the Future: Reconnecting with History and Exploring the Business World

As part of our vocational guidance, our search for non-philosophical stimuli, and the development of critical thinking skills, 10th and 11th-grade students from our Gimnasio Campestre La Fontana embarked on an academic trip to Bogotá on March 5 and 6, 2026. During this journey, we explored various academic options and expanded our perspectives on university life.

The first day began early in an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm. During the trip, we stopped at “La Vaquería Express” for a delicious breakfast. The calm music and shared meal with classmates and teachers helped us start the experience with a positive attitude.

Our first stop was Universidad del Rosario, recognized as one of the top universities in Colombia. Two student ambassadors guided us through the institution, highlighting opportunities such as double degrees, international exchange programs, and scholarships of up to 80%. They also introduced us to “UR Emotion,” an app designed to help students manage their emotional well-being.

We also participated in a workshop at the Faculty of Creation. Using paper, scissors, and tape, we designed abstract figures that were later transformed into innovative structures with the help of Artificial Intelligence. This activity helped us understand that creativity is a key process in developing ideas; even if these ideas are not initially accepted by society, they have the potential to transform it.

Later, we visited the exhibition “Ecos de Gigantes,” where we learned about species that inhabited the Earth approximately 252 million years ago. This experience, based on fossils found on the very grounds where the university stands today, inspired curiosity and led us to reflect on the mark we want to leave on the world.

After lunch on campus, we visited Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. We were organized by academic interest into areas such as International Relations, Law, Engineering, and Music. These sessions allowed us to speak with professors and students, giving us a clearer understanding of the academic programs, international projects, and horizons offered by the university.

On the second day, we departed after breakfast at the “Club Militar de Suboficiales Colina Campestre” to follow two different paths: 10th grade visited Museo del Oro to find non-philosophical inspiration for their Internal Assessment (IA), while 11th grade headed to the Alpina plant in Sopó to deepen their knowledge of Business Management.

At Alpina, although strict health and safety protocols prevented us from entering the production line, the visit offered deep insights into the company’s operations. Through a case study, we analyzed how Alpina impacts its consumers and identified the factors—such as quality and innovation—that differentiate it in the market. Exploring the external grounds and enjoying some Alpina products made the experience dynamic, allowing us to connect theory with our experiences as consumers. We also worked in pairs on a business design case proposed by Mrs. Maryluz Hurtado, creating videos to analyze the company’s value proposition.

Meanwhile, at Museo del Oro, we learned what this space means to Colombian history through metallurgy. We explored pre-Columbian traditions, rituals, and ways of thinking through symbolic objects like poporos and animal representations, which demonstrate a spiritual connection to nature. One of the most significant moments was a sensory activity where sounds and symbolic objects immersed us in an indigenous ritual regarding the transition from life to death. The visit also sparked a discussion on the ethics of preservation and the impact of looting on our national history.

Without a doubt, this academic trip provided more than just vocational tools; it helped us connect academic knowledge with the real world. We would like to thank our teachers—Mr. César Moreno, Mrs. Yadira Cruz, Mrs. Lida Figueroa, Mrs. Maryluz Hurtado, Mr. Nicolás Hernández, Ms. Alejandra Méndez, Mr. Wilmer Bolaños, and Ms. Yulieth Navarro—for their support.

And you, what are you doing today to build the future of your dreams? Let us know in the comments!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0brgCligvOQ

Edited by Alejandra Méndez