The 2026 Winterim, the centerpiece of Forman School’s commitment to experiential education, has officially come to a close—and it was an extraordinary two weeks for Forman students. 

Sixteen groups of students dove into hands-on learning opportunities on campus, locally, and across the globe. These immersive experiences brought studies to life in meaningful and memorable ways.

From exploring new cultures to visiting historic sites to gaining a deeper understanding of specialized topics, students ventured far and wide. Off-campus programs included:

• Florida: Animal Recovery Mission

• Galápagos: The Enchanted Isles

• Golf: More Than Just a Game; An $86 Billion Industry (Florida) 

• From Narnia to Neverland: Exploring Children’s Literature in the British Landscape

• Laos & Thailand: Threads of Tradition and Currents of Change

• Postcards from the Alps: Writing Your Way Through Switzerland

• Rome: Rise, Rule, and Ruin

Meanwhile, students in Forman’s Rainforest Project—celebrating its 31st anniversary this year—spent two weeks in Costa Rica conducting scientific research, following months of preparation in a Tropical Ecology Seminar course.

“We have tracked numerous wildcat species, banded over 100 birds, processed some very rare amphibians, and had a blast working together night and day,” the team shared. “31 years and still discovering new species and building confidence through fieldwork!”

Three student teams—Birds, Reptiles and Amphibians, and Wild Cats—will share their findings during Forman’s annual Dissertation Day, which will take place on April 24th, 2026, during Spring Family Weekend. The event will be live-streamed.

Closer to campus, students honed new skills, delved into diverse topics, and pursued passions in a dynamic range of programs, including: 

• Broadway Bound

• College Tours of the Northeast

• Forged in Forman

• Justice on Trial: The Courtroom’s Greatest Dramas

• Marvels of the Modern Superhero

• Move, Breathe, Recover

• Stained and Fused Glass

• The Style Lab: Fashion, Design & Personal Aesthetics

Reflecting on the conclusion of Winterim, Head of School Amy Clemons shared, “The enthusiasm and energy students demonstrated as they shared their excitement about what they learned and experienced made it clear that the time was incredibly well spent. Being exposed to something completely new clearly sparked curiosity and possibility—several students shared that they are now considering careers in fields they had never previously imagined.”

On-campus programs wrapped up with a showcase in the Malcolm G. Chace Student Center, where students proudly presented their projects and shared their experiences.

Because students who learn differently tend to excel as innovators, entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders, Winterim provides opportunities to explore new subjects, apply skills, and lay a foundation for their unique talents. This year’s Winterim again proved that some of the most impactful learning happens beyond the traditional classroom—through curiosity, exploration, and real-world experience.