Many area students enjoyed a break from school over spring vacation, but BASIS Independent McLean (BIM) French students decided to take their break in Senegal, far from their classroom, but still deeply immersed in an enriching, educational experience of a lifetime. World travel is an optional opportunity for BIM students looking to take their education outside their textbooks and familiar settings. Senegal not only gave French students an immersive environment in the French language, but also provided them a new cultural and societal viewpoint of life outside of McLean, Va. For more information on the school, go to http://mclean.basisindependent.com.

New Pigeon Forge attraction will host a special temporary exhibit on the wildlife trafficking trade

When a Minnesota-based dentist paid $54,000 to trophy hunt in Zimbabwe in 2015 with a professional guide, he unknowingly was about to kill the beloved and iconic lion- Cecil. The images from that hunt went viral and although the dentist’s actions were not deemed illegal, the event sparked a worldwide outcry and raised awareness about the plight of wildlife, including lions, tigers, and elephants. Since that incident, the public is increasingly committed to protect wildlife and to put a stop to the trade of illegal wildlife poaching.

Having good skin has more to do with psychological well-being than just sheer vanity

For the millions of people who struggle with their skin, it’s something that can have a major impact on their life. Skincare problems can lead to serious psychological issues, that have long-term effects. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology reports that millions of people are affected by skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, and that each of these issues are linked to depression and anxiety. The emotional impacts can continue to impair the individual long after their skin condition has cleared up. Our body image accounts for a large part of a person’s self-esteem and our overall psychological well-being.