A space to reflect. A time to set intentions. A place to bond with peers.

These are all takeaways from the Sophomore Sojourn, a recent Franklin & Marshall College tradition open to students in their second year on campus. 

Forty F&M students traveled in mid-October to Gretna Glen Camp and Retreat Center, an idyllic woodland property in nearby Lebanon County.

“They’ve had their first full year that was focused on exploration and understanding and who they are: The things that they came to college to do, and the things that they want to be doing. By the time they hit their sophomore year, they have this base experience to reflect,” said Matt Thomas ’10, director of leadership and education.

The overnight sojourn schedule included archery, canoeing and kayaking, a climbing wall, sunrise yoga and hiking, creating art in nature, learning about native flora and fauna, and conversation around a campfire.

“I think I have a better understanding of myself and my place at F&M. Connecting with the facilitators and peers in the small group reflections gave me the space and freedom to really analyze my growth at F&M and inspire me to try new opportunities going forward,” said Lea Cutolo ’27, of Queens, N.Y., who intends to major in biology.

“As a result of the sojourn, I am feeling more connected with my peers and have been able to connect with more people on campus because I'm now in a mindset of stepping out of my bubble and meeting new people,” said Liam McEwan ’27, who hails from Brooklyn, N.Y., and intends to major in dance.

The retreat also left plenty of space for self-reflection. 

“I have gained a better understanding of my life goals. I was reminded of the importance of being mindful and setting intentions every step of the way,” said Michelle Baeza ’27, of Hollywood, Fla.

“I feel the sojourn provided me with valuable reflective opportunities and bonding with others to get to know them and myself simultaneously,” said Baeza, who intends to pursue a joint major in business, organizations & society and public health. 

The Sophomore Sojourn occurs during an important chapter of the journey for all F&M students: the semester prior to declaring a major. 

“They are stepping into their new home by declaring a major and connecting more deeply within their department. They're undergoing a transformative experience,” Thomas said. 

The Sophomore Sojourn, a recent F&M tradition, provides time to reflect and bond with peers prior to declaring an academic major. (Photo by Deb Grove)

The Sophomore Sojourn, a recent F&M tradition, provides time for self-reflection. (Photo by Deb Grove)

Sophomore Sojourn attendees participate in small group projects to develop stronger relationships with their peers. (Photo by Deb Grove)

The overnight sojourn schedule included archery, canoeing and kayaking, a climbing wall, sunrise yoga and hiking, creating art in nature, learning about native flora and fauna, and conversation around a campfire. (Photo by Deb Grove)

The Sophomore Sojourn, a recent F&M tradition, provides time to reflect and bond with peers prior to declaring an academic major. (Photo by Deb Grove)

"They’ve had their first full year that was focused on exploration and understanding and who they are: The things that they came to college to do, and the things that they want to be doing," said Matt Thomas '10 (pictured standing), director of leadership and education. (Photo by Deb Grove)

Sophomore Sojourn attendees broke into groups to create team flags. (Photo by Deb Grove)

Students enjoy a game of "gaga ball," a classic summer camp game combining dodging, striking, running, and jumping. (Photo by Deb Grove)

Sophomore Sojourn students enjoy kayaking at Gretna Glen Camp and Retreat Center. (Photo by Deb Grove)

Sophomore Sojourn students enjoyed some classic camp crafts. (Photo by Deb Grove)

The overnight sojourn schedule included archery, canoeing and kayaking, a climbing wall, sunrise yoga and hiking, creating art in nature, learning about native flora and fauna, and conversation around a campfire. (Photo by Deb Grove)

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