A one-credit course gives students an opportunity to reflect on their lives and craft plans for the future.
The retreat served as the foundation of a one-credit transition strategies course, “Charting Your Journey: Life Entrepreneurs,” which runs the second half of the fall semester with faculty and student facilitators.
Students in the course learn to identify their strengths, be alert to opportunities, take measured risks, set goals, think strategically, and practice the art of reflection and renewal. They also develop a resume, practice interview skills, and complete informational interviews with people in their prospective field.
Participants at the most recent retreat spent their first day turning a lens on themselves to uncover who they are and the importance of their life history to their worldview. Learning about themselves and sharing knowledge with peers helped quick connections form between participants.
The focus shifted on the second day to “where do you want to go.” Each student created a vision statement for an ideal future while taking part in team activities to build.
Most students said they do not usually give themselves time for inward reflection. They appreciated time spent thinking about their future and the steps they want to take to get there, especially after realizing how much time they have left at Elon.
“I thought the retreat was a very enriching experience,” said sophomore Marguerite Rix. “It allowed me to spend time with others and enabled me to get to know them at a deeper level. I enjoyed the time I spent on the retreat and thought it was a very worthwhile experience.”
Students interested in participating in the Life Entrepreneur Program this spring should look for more information on the website or by contacting Rex Waters, dean of student development, by Nov. 1 at waters@elon.edu.