At the end of their two-year journey in Montezuma, UWC-USA second-years gather for a day that looks both backward and forward: the second-year retreat. Held typically in mid-April, the retreat gives students space to reflect on who they have become and to imagine who they might yet be as university students and courageous global citizens.
This year’s retreat, organized by alumni engagement officer Reed Baumgarten ’89 in collaboration with college counseling and student life, featured recent alumni who returned—virtually and in person—to share what life after UWC-USA really looks like. They spoke candidly about academic pressures, finding community, and the unexpected challenges of starting over in new places.
For second-year student Daruka, one message landed with particular force. “One key insight that stood out to me was the reassurance that starting over in a new place is not something to fear but rather something that is a natural and valuable part of growth,” she reflected. She was also moved by advice from math teacher Jen Lavery: “Do not forget how powerful you are and what potential you have within yourselves as UWC students.” Those words, Daruka said, will travel with her as she steps into college life, reminding her to balance embracing new beginnings with staying grounded in her values and experiences at UWC-USA.
The retreat is also where students begin to see themselves not only as graduates of UWC-USA’s academic and co-curricular program, but as emerging alumni. Reed, who spends his days connecting with alumni around the world, helps second-years understand that their relationship with the school is changing—but not ending – and that their UWC journey is actually just beginning. As they listened to alumni stories and considered their own next steps, the Class of 2026 also began to glimpse their future role: returning to support the students who will soon sit where they sit now.