When and where is this year’s Freshman Retreat?

Freshman Retreat is Friday, September 6, through Sunday, September 8, at the Sandy Hill Camp in Northeast, Maryland.

How much does the retreat cost?
The retreat costs $70. Until August 11, there is an early bird special for $55.
Are scholarships available?
Yes! Please email us at cua-campus-ministry@cua.edu.
When and where do we depart?
We depart on Friday, September 6. 
You have the option to attend 5:10 PM Mass. If you do, we suggest quickly going to the Garv for dinner.
*Important: please eat dinner before coming to the bus.*

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. You will immediately board the charter bus and we depart at 6:30 PM.

When and where do we return?

We’ll return to the McMahon Parking Lot by (3 PM) on Sunday, September 8, 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, you can reach out and discuss possibilities.

What if I need to return earlier than everyone else? Can I still attend the retreat?

Sadly, it is not possible to leave early, except in cases of medical emergencies. We hope that your schedule can adjust.

What should I expect?

This retreat welcomes freshmen into the faith community at Catholic University. It’s a singular chance to connect with other freshmen, with upperclassmen, and with our campus ministry, all while seeking the Lord together. There are moments of fun and games, rest and relaxation, and prayer and faith. This all takes place on a campsite on the Chesapeake Bay, providing a chance for both refreshment and adventure. 

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 can 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.

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 both working ahead and/or being ready to catch up.

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, and Mass and other prayer times.

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