Senior Transition Retreat

By Jaesung Kim

As 12th graders approach graduation day and prepare to turn a new page in their lives, many adults and teachers attempt to assist them via the annual Senior Transition Retreat. The event took place on March 11 to 12, 2022, and answered questions about faith, fear, finance, relationships, sex, etc. 

Following the pandemic and half a semester of online schooling (and taking place before Senior Sneak), the transition retreat was rather unusual and surprising. Many students were not able to be present due to the virus, while new students had few opportunities to make an impact in the class. Wayne Khor (12), who hesitated on going to the retreat due to a relative’s case, said, “The virus restricted me from going to school and half the senior retreat.” Students who transferred to Dalat during the pandemic were unable to reach out to all of their classmates due to the cancellation of extracurricular and social activities. 

However, despite the oddities, the retreat still provided the seniors with priceless memories and advice. During free time from 12 to 4 pm on March 11th, students gathered around the beach and pools to enjoy their breaks. 

Dylan Chew (12), who was on the losing side of the football encounter, said, “It was a very fun experience being able to play beach football with my classmates, but the ref got the wrong call near the end.” Despite one side’s loss, the match ended in smiles and excitement for round two, which they decided would be on Senior Sneak. 

Other students spent their time swimming, filming Tik-Toks, and sleeping. In the lectures that followed the break, students received advice from teachers and adults about mental health and faith. Emilia Park (12) expresses her gratitude towards the teacher’s advice: “On the day after STR, I tried listing down my daily routine like Ms. Foster suggested and it really worked. My mood was instantly boosted.” 

In the midst of frustrating and confusing times, seniors showed a positive mindset heading forward. Esther Lo (12), former varsity athlete, said, “This retreat reminded me of when times were simpler in our 8th grade retreat and made me really excited for Sneak because I love seeing our class interact with each other.” 

Rather than lamenting over what was stolen from us, the seniors look to take back what was lost. By choosing to be hopeful, they are an excellent example of strength and growth.