The First Year Retreat is an overnight weekend retreat offered exclusively to our first year students. It is a great way for first year students to spend time reflecting on their first weeks at USD, and what they are hoping for during their college experience. Throughout the retreat, we will discuss the questions, "Who am I? Whose am I? Who am I called to become?" The First Year Retreat is a great opportunity to meet new friends, including other first-year students and awesome student leaders, who are looking forward to helping our first year students in their transition to college.
*2026 Registration will open soon.
Dates
October 9-11, 2026
Location
Camp Stevens in Julian, CA
Available to
First Year Students
Cost
$80
*financial aid available upon request
We never want the cost to prevent students from enjoying our programs. Because of this, financial assistance is available! If you would like to request assistance (100% or 50%), please click the "Request Financial Aid" option at the end of the registration and follow the steps to be taken for financial assistance. All requests will be honored.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Kenny Van Tilburg at kvantilburg@sandiego.edu.
Students from all faith traditions and backgrounds, and those still searching for their religious identity, are welcome and strongly encouraged to attend the First Year Retreat. We strive to provide an environment where all students feel comfortable exploring their faith and what they believe. Even though the retreat is based in the Catholic tradition, which includes student talks, music, and prayer, there is an open and inclusive environment on the retreat.
During the First Year Retreat, students who attend can expect to have an unplugged weekend to begin fostering new relationships, making a home at USD, and growing in their faith and spirituality. This is done through student talks, journaling/reflection, small group discussions, community-building activities, shared meals, and time outside in the mountains.
We ask that you come prepared to be open, authentic, and flexible. It is our hope and expectation that students attending First Year will be active and engaged participants in small and large group activities as you are able. We have high expectations of each of our leaders and participants to foster an environment of inclusivity, compassion, and respect for all people. Bring your sense of humor and positive attitude, and this is sure to be a wonderful experience!
On the retreat, students will be staying in cabins. We have three types of dorms available for our students: women's, men's, and gender-neutral. Limited private sleeping spaces are available for retreatants who have need of them and must be arranged in advance. Please see the registration link for further information on the "Accommodations" page. If you have any questions, please reach out to Kenny Van Tilburg at kvantilburg@sandiego.edu.
Please feel free to contact us if we can be of any support in answering further questions. We truly look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to USD and the University Ministry community!
Contact Kenny Van Tilburg, University Minister for the First-Year Retreat kvantilburg@sandiego.edu.