When and where is this year’s Freshman Retreat?
Freshman Retreat is Friday, September 5, through Sunday, September 7, at the Sandy Hill Camp and Retreat Center in North East, MD.

How much does the retreat cost?
The retreat costs $50. 

Are scholarships available?
Yes! Please email us at cua-campus-ministry@cua.edu.

When and where do we depart?
We depart on Friday, September 5. Arrive for check in between 6:00-6:30 PM. 

You have the option to attend 5:10 PM Mass. If you do, we suggest quickly going to the Garv for dinner afterward.

Please come to the Campus Ministry Office in the Garden Level of Caldwell Hall (under the auditorium)  to check in and receive your bus assignment between 6:00-6:30 PM. You will immediately board the charter bus. We depart promptly at 7:00 PM. 

*Important Notes: Please eat dinner before coming to the bus on Friday evening. Also, there will not be an opportunity to attend Mass on Friday evening at the retreat center. 

When and where do we return?
We’ll return to the McMahon Parking Lot on Sunday, September 7 between 3:30 - 4:00pm (depending on traffic). That’s the parking lot between McMahon, Caldwell, the Pryz, and Hannan.

What if I can’t make the departure time? Can I still make the retreat?
It’s rarely possible to arrive late. We highly recommend reworking your schedule to arrive at the Campus Ministry Office by 6:30 PM on Friday. If you can’t, reach out and discuss possibilities with us.

What if I need to return earlier than everyone else? Can I still attend the retreat?
Sadly, it’s not possible to leave early, except in cases of a medical emergency. We hope that you can adjust your schedule. 

What should I expect?
This retreat seeks to welcome all freshmen into the faith community at Catholic University. It’s a unique chance to connect with your new classmates, some upperclassmen, and the campus ministry staff. There are moments for fun and games, rest and relaxation, and prayer and reflection. This all takes place on the Chesapeake Bay, providing a chance for adventure and refreshment. 

What's the rooming situation?
Students stay in single-sex cabins with bunk beds. There are men's and women's bathhouses just outside the cabins.

Can I request to room with friends?
Yes, you can. We will do our best to accommodate your request, but there are no guarantees. 

What if I get sick?
If you get sick before the retreat, please stay back to rest and recover. We will refund you. If you get sick at the retreat, we will have someone on staff to attend to you. If needed, we can drive you back to campus or to a hospital. Also, there will be a nurse on sight throughout the weekend. 

Can I get homework done?
Yes, there will be some free time, and you can use that for homework. That said, this weekend will be prime time for making new friends, kayaking, playing volleyball, etc. We suggest working ahead or being ready to do a little catch up when you return. 

What’s the packing list?
We recommend packing a sleeping bag (and/or sheets and blanket), pillow, sneakers, flip flops, toiletries, bath towel, beach towel, swimsuit (one-piece for women, trunks for men), sunscreen, water bottle (and/or travel coffee mug), personal medications, casual clothes, sweatshirt, raincoat, flashlight, and bug spray. You’ll want clothes for outdoor games (they can get messy and even wet), sand volleyball, swimming pool, kayaking on the Chesapeake Bay, the Holy Mass and other prayer times.

What about the weather?
Keep an eye on the weather. Be ready for rain or sunshine!