As Rockhurst’s freshman class is adjusting to life at the Rock, they have started to become comfortable on campus. However, there is one upcoming event that can help increase their comfort level: the annual Freshman Retreat.
The Freshman Retreat is a day-long event where the entire freshman class participates in games and activities to get to know each other better. Two or three upperclassmen are assigned to lead a small group of freshmen throughout the day. The retreat has been a Rockhurst tradition for more than 20 years. Director of Pastoral Ministry, Matt Nickson, believes that the retreat is a vital part of the Rockhurst experience.
“It’s one of the first things that they’re going to do as an entire class, so that makes it very important,” he said.
Rockhurst’s freshman class met with their student group leaders on Friday in preparation for this year’s freshman retreat. The freshmen and their leaders got the chance to introduce themselves to each other, create a group name, and make a flag that will be in their rooms on the day of the retreat. Freshman Vince Sorensen appreciated the opportunity to meet with his group before the retreat.
“It was cool to see who my group leaders are and to see who is in my group,” he said. “I feel like I know what to expect a little better now.”
Nickson thought it was important for the freshmen to meet their leaders in advance.
“It’s kind of like an orientation before they’re going to spend the day with their group leaders,” he said.
He also thinks it can create a more laid-back environment for the freshman on retreat day.
“If there’s any freshman that has anxieties about the day, I think previewing it can be helpful.”
Student leader Jeb Koetting enjoyed the opportunity to meet the freshmen ahead of time.
“It was just good to get to know them. I think it will help everything go a little more smoothly on the day of the retreat,” he said. “I think the freshman will be more comfortable and we won’t have to introduce ourselves again.”
Around 100 student leaders are helping lead the retreat this year. These leaders have been preparing for the retreat since last spring. Koetting does not regret the amount of time he spent getting ready for the retreat.
“We care about the freshmen and we want to make sure that they have a great experience together,” he said. “That’s really why we do it.”
The retreat will take place on Friday. The freshmen will be the only students on campus aside from the group leaders.
