Thirty ARC summer course graduates came together last weekend for the 2014 ARC Reunion. The annual event celebrates the successes of ARC graduates, reinforces the values taught in the summer course, and encourages students to reflect on their academic and personal goals.
Of course, there was also a fun, outdoor adventure planned for the weekend! Students snowboarded, skied, and ice skated on Saturday at NorthStar Resort in Tahoe. Despite the less-than-snowy winter we’ve had, everyone was excited for the opportunity to hit the slopes. About three-quarters of the group had either never been snowboarding or skiing before or had only been once. NorthStar generously provided professional instructors and lift passes for the ARC graduates. Thank you NorthStar for an amazing Saturday of wintry fun!
During the retreat, the students reflected on how their lives have changed since they participated in the ARC summer course. Manuel, a participant from the 2013 Yosemite course, shared with the group how his confidence and English speaking skills have improved. “I used to not know much English. I couldn’t communicate with anybody and no one could communicate with me. When I came to this program, I had to use English for 40 days and I improved a lot. Now, I am more confident in myself and I am not afraid to speak English…or even speak in front of many people!”
The reunion was a successful weekend of reminiscing, seeing old friends, and making new ones. Thank you to everyone who came! See you next year!