Campus Ministry invites all first-year and transfer students to attend the First-Year Retreat (FYR), Oct. 2-4 in Malibu, California. The retreat offers students a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and hear from upperclassmen about their own experiences transitioning to LMU — all while having fun in the mountains.
“Student leaders provide meaningful mentorship, conversation, and activities to ensure first-years feel like they can be their authentic selves both on FYR and when they return to campus,” said Diana Hadjiyane, the campus minister running the retreat, “I personally love FYR because I get to watch strangers become family in just 48 hours. Seeing how apprehension on the bus turns to hugs and giggles at late-night smores and karaoke is the highlight of my job here.”
First-year students will be surrounded by about 75 other first-year and transfer students and accompanied by student leaders. They will hear stories of triumph in transition, build community in small groups, reflect on their hopes and fears for college, and celebrate new connections over campfires and karaoke.
Will Bonifas ’27, a marketing major who attended FYR and has also led the retreat for the past two years, is looking forward to sharing his LMU experiences with others while leading a small group.
“I remember the unique sharing and connection that happened at those times. I think the small group setting is what really allows students to open up and connect,” said Bonifas. “FYR gives the opportunity to meet other people in the same situation and be able to bond over that.”
All first-year students are encouraged to attend the retreat to spend time reflecting on who they are and where they are headed.
“College can fly by, and the amazing part about FYR is that it allows folks to slow down and realize what’s important to them, while surrounded by amazing people who want to see them thrive,” said Hadjiyane. “An FYR attendee, hopefully, leaves feeling refreshed, grounded, and most importantly, celebrated for their authentic self.”