Freshman Retreat

By Tuie Aya-Ay

At the start of the school year, O'Dea High School welcomed its newest freshmen for a special retreat at Camp Don Bosco. This annual event helps students transition into high school while creating strong friendships and a supportive community.

When the freshmen arrived at Camp Don Bosco, they were greeted by their teachers and older students. The camp’s beautiful natural setting made it the perfect place to relax and connect with one another. As students settled into their cabins, excitement filled the air, signaling the start of a memorable weekend.

The retreat was packed with fun activities that encouraged teamwork and self-discovery. Students participated in icebreaker games to get to know each other better. Group challenges required cooperation, some of the activates were playing basketball, and they made a poster with a picture in the middle it also had to include 5 words about what is a brotherhood means to them, they also talked about faith life and tried to have them express theirs, this emphasizes the importance of communication and support. Laughter and cheers echoed through the camp as students tackled obstacle courses and shared stories by the campfire.

Reflection played a crucial role in the retreat. With guidance from faculty and upperclassmen, students took part in discussions about their hopes and fears regarding high school. They also had time to journal their thoughts, helping them process their feelings about this new chapter in their lives. Many students found these moments of reflection to be grounding and empowering.

Creating a sense of community was a major goal of the retreat. In small groups, students shared their goals and challenges, forging connections that would last throughout their high school years.

As the retreat came to an end, students returned home feeling excited and connected. They left Camp Don Bosco not just as individuals but as a supportive group, ready to face the challenges of high school together. The friendships they formed and the lessons they learned will guide them throughout their journey at O'Dea High School.