Impressed by Our Skilled Students

National Defense University International Fellows Tours School
We recently had the honor of welcoming members of the National Defense University International Fellows program to our campus. The visiting group of worldwide veterans and active-duty military officials representing numerous countries were eager to tour our school and speak with our students about their vocational-technical education.

The National Defense University in Washington, D.C., provides senior international civilian and military leaders with graduate learning opportunities. Its International Fellows program is a one-year intensive program focused on educating, inspiring, and developing national security leaders. As part of their studies, the International Fellows Class of 2025 visited Upton, MA, on September 25th to better understand the American education system.

The group welcomed a first-hand look at our career technical education. They walked our halls and observed students and teachers at work in modern vocational shops and our academic classrooms. The guided tours ended with a sample of professionally prepared treats our Culinary Arts students prepared for visitors to enjoy before a question-and-answer session with administrators and students.

Having viewed the hands-on training students use in their vocational classrooms, the group wanted to know how students balance their vocational and academic coursework. They also wanted to understand how our students decide which vocational program is right for them and how they plan to continue in their chosen fields.

"BVT has incredible tools and technology," said International Fellow Jasper of the Netherlands while touring the school. "It was incredible to observe students using these tools and building their skills and how well they articulate what they are working on."

"During the tour, we spoke with students who were using modern tools and equipment they'd use in the workforce," said International Fellow Adel of Algeria. "It's remarkable that students like our tour guide, Kiele Sarnie, have specialized skills that allow them to compete locally and internationally. Very impressive."

The visit illustrates how we work to broaden our student's understanding by sharing our views with others. Visiting with the International Fellows allows our students to consider the aspects of a military career. Our students were proud to share their perspectives on vocational education at a regional high school in the United States.