Over two hundred members of the Class of 2020 made their first memories as Ospreys during the 2016 Stockton Outdoor Adventure Retreat (S.O.A.R.). From August 30-September 1, The Activity Leaders of New Students (T.A.L.O.N.S.) guided Stockton University’s freshman class through the winding dirt paths of Camp Ockanickon to help prepare them for the twists and turns of life in college.

Before the journey to camp began, Stockton’s newest students moved into their dorm rooms and were sorted into their tribe colors (although some think it is up for debate, Sky is in fact a color). After some emotional goodbyes, the students were eager to meet their new classmates. While waiting for the buses, the T.A.L.O.N.S. helped minimize the awkwardness of mingling by introducing icebreakers to play and mind games to go insane over. I still don’t know why I’m the broom.

There was SOAR much to do over the next few days, with a favorite being the never-ending list of S.O.A.R. puns. From relaxing swims in the lake to pushing personal limits on the Project Adventure course, Camp Ockanickon was filled with fun opportunities. In addition to the recreational activities, the Stockton and YMCA staff also held a variety of dialogue sessions throughout the trip. These activities focused on topics like getting involved on campus and becoming more empathetic. Strategies to be successful in college and beyond were also incorporated into exciting games and challenges.

S.O.A.R. is unlike any pre-college program seen at other universities. Stockton’s freshman retreat encouraged emotional growth during the transition into college. Students had the opportunity to think deeply about what they want out of these next four years; furthermore, the high-ropes course challenged students in new ways and instilled mental toughness. The first day of S.O.A.R. was really awkward, but by the end of it, I felt more prepared than ever to start college. I was put at ease when I recognized so many faces at Welcome Week; being in on all of the inside jokes from Camp Ockanickon was SOAR much fun.