Marking the start of a new adventure, Sage Hill’s freshman class traveled to Big Bear on September 13. Although students were at first unfamiliar with each other, this trip would help them learn about their classmates and grow closer as a class. As light broke through the clouds above Big Bear, conversation arose, snacks were shared, and the bus smiled with the joy of new friends. During the next three days at Big Bear, the freshmen focused on team-building.
On the first day after a brief orientation, advisors released students to free time.
“I got to bond with classmates and spend time in nature,” Benjamin Ahn remarked. Most freshmen agreed that the best types of conversation sparked in free time, and they created new friendships. Later that day, students embarked on a night hike that compelled them to stay close and talk amongst each other. At the end of the night in a talent show, students gained courage from their peers and performed in a display of skill and fun.
Throughout the next day, students participated in the Amazing Race, zip lines, advisory banners, and puzzles. SAME organized a project led by the co-president, Isabella Palacio.
“They enjoyed and learned about different topics,” Isabella noted.
These activities made advisories closer as they had to work through problems, communicate solutions, and encourage one another. As a culmination of the advisors’ efforts, each freshman advisory presented their banner at nightime, and Mr. Jorden’s advisory won first place. The energy of every advisory brought a unique aspect of the Class of 2027 to the table.
“The retreat allowed me to get away from the busy school atmosphere, clear my mind, and make friends,” Samuel Jindal commented.
At the end of the three days, the freshmen had connected with classmates and cemented relationships with others. Big Bear brought an exciting beginning to the next four years for the Class of 2027.
