On January 8, 2025, the McKinney Christian Academy International Upper School students flew from Texas to California. The MCA International Upper School students include seniors Hayun Lee and Ken Quan, junior Alvin Ma, sophomore Alonso Pacheco Goya, and freshman Jinxi Zou. Director of ISP Edna Pajela and Upper School teacher Joesph Castillo accompanied them. Although the original intent of the trip was to allow the students to visit colleges located in California, like Pepperdine and UCLA, due to the recent fires and evacuations, they could not.  However, they could still visit Biola University, the University of California San Diego, and the University of San Diego. They could not visit Disneyland due to tickets being sold out, but they could visit Sea World, Tuna Harbor Park San Diego, and La Jolla Cove San Diego. While on this trip, the students got to try various fun foods from places like Porto’s Bakery, Yummy Sushi Coronado, and Hash House A Go Go. Throughout this trip, Pajela shared daily devotions with the students to strengthen their understanding and relationship with God. They also attended Grace Church San Diego for a Sunday Service. Castillo said, “The pastors there spoke on the Bible verses and studies we had covered with the students throughout the week. It was a powerful confirmation that God was truly listening and talking to myself and Mrs. Pajela, who was very emotional during the service, making it a memorable and meaningful experience for all of us.” When asked about his favorite part of the trip, Quan said, “My favorite part of the trip was visiting California’s coast. The sea was peaceful and unforgettable, especially in La Jolla.”