Licking Heights Local Schools’ sixth grade student Eva Haylett was named the only student from Ohio to win the America250 national travel competition. Her prize was an all-expenses-paid trip for her and her father to Yellowstone National Park — an experience she called “amazing and unforgettable.”
The America250 competition asks students to respond to the theme “What does America mean to you?” through art and writing. Eva’s winning piece was filled with famous American landmarks, reflecting her love for creativity and exploration.
“When I think of America, I think of all the places you can see,” she said. “I wanted to include those iconic images in my picture.”
Eva is an accomplished artist who has already won multiple awards from the Licking County Soil and Water Conservation District. She first learned about the contest while searching online for art competitions in her free time, which she often does outside of school.
With encouragement from her mother, Eva created her artwork and explained why she chose Yellowstone as her dream destination.
“Yellowstone and Wyoming are so beautiful,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to go there with my dad. Now I finally got the chance.”
During the four-day, three-night adventure, Eva stayed at the Ridgeline Hotel on the Yellowstone River in Gardiner, Montana. She loved the “outpost feel” of the town, particularly the elk roaming freely nearby.
Her first day began with a VIP nature tour of Yellowstone, followed by a white-water rafting trip — where they even witnessed a bison stampede. On the second day, she explored geysers, mudpots and hot springs on a geologic tour. That afternoon, she tried fly fishing, catching both a rainbow trout and a brook trout.
Eva said the trip deepened her appreciation for America’s beauty and diversity — and gave her lasting memories with her family.
“I’m super proud of myself,” Eva said. “It feels unbelievable. I’m just so happy I was given this opportunity.”
The America250 competition will open again next year, giving more students the chance to showcase their talents. For now, Licking Heights is celebrating Eva’s big win — and the once-in-a-lifetime Yellowstone experience that came with it.
Information submitted by Licking Heights Local Schools.
This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Summit Station student wins national America250 travel contest