Nicole Gieselman ’19

On Aug. 31, first-year students at Arcadia got a taste of Philly.

At the Honors Program retreat, 75 first-year students competed in icebreaker games, sampled local cuisine, and journeyed into Philadelphia. An introduction to the City of Brotherly Love for many of the students, the evening included an after-hours tour of Eastern State Penitentiary, activities at Independence Mall, ice cream at The Franklin Fountain, and free time at Spruce Street Harbor Park.

“This is a great way to show new students all that the program has to offer,” said International Business and Spanish major Corrina Gonzales ‘19, who planned the Honors Retreat alongside Assistant Dean of the Honors Program Helene Klein. “The goal for the program this year is inclusion and realizing your self value.”  

Gonzales oversees one of the retreat’s key features: A meet-and-greet between first-year students and Honors mentors, who will offer guidance and support throughout the year. Other activities, including weekly ‘Hive at Five’ meet-ups, have been planned to alleviate stress and build a sense of community throughout the year.

An Honors Program kickoff event, “Swarm,” will be held on Friday, Sept. 7, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Grey Towers Castle. The reception will include an overview of Honors events and opportunities, the grand reveal of first-year mentors, and catering by Sweet Taco.