Every year New College takes its students and faculty on a retreat to Camp McDowell in Jasper, Alabama. Organized, planned, and carried out by the New College Council, the weekend getaway provides an opportunity for the New College community to bond with group activities like hiking, canoeing, and cooking.
This year 40 students, faculty, and children of faculty made the trek to Camp McDowell. There were many memorable experiences—playing music on the front porch, hiking with Big Dave, yoga in the morning, and eating hamburgers that were a bit on the rare side.
But the Saturday night bonfire and drum circle were probably the highlight of the trip. With African drums provided by New College professor, Jennifer Caputo, students and faculty made music well into the night. This year a new tradition was introduced. All the graduating seniors gathered together around the fire for a special dance and the opportunity to showcase their own individual (and unique) dancing skills.
Next year’s seniors need to start thinking now about their Camp McDowell tradition. Perhaps a Senior Splash into a freezing creek?
Author: Bre Swims