This year, FTSANY chose the slopes of Mount Snow in the famed Green Mountains of Vermont. The weekend trip began with enriching cultural stops in Springfield, Massachusetts, on February 8. Students visited among the Springfield Museums, a group of five museums that highlights fine arts and local history. They also stopped by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, which honors the game that James Naismith invented in 1891 at Springfield College. In the evening, students celebrated the Lunar New Year at a Quality Inn & Conference Center, where they enjoyed an Italian buffet, raffles, and group games.
The students finally hit the slopes on Sunday, February 9. Students could ski, snowboard, or take in the breathtaking scenery. For the many first-timers, there were beginner lessons; for daring and experienced, they could take on hilly challenge courses or take an advanced lesson. The trip ended later that evening as they arrived home in New York. For all, the trip was a welcome escape from snowy city streets and from school.
FTSANY used its organization to efficiently register over 80 participants (including using PayPal to collect fees) from all across the greater New York area. Students also used social media to arrange meet-ups, carpools, rooms, and to borrow equipment, such as expensive ski gear and snowboards that new students might not have.
FTSANY is a non-profit organization currently in its 23rd year. It is fully run by Taiwanese students whose goal is to serve and fellowship with other students.