By: Amabelle ’25

Here at Notre Dame, we value our traditions. One of these customs is the annual Freshman Breakaway Day. This year, the Stingrays spent their retreat in two locations.

At the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy, students were stewards of the environment. Throughout the day, they assisted the staff with weeding and cleaning. Themed “Environment Matters”, the Class of 2026 learned the importance of taking an active role in caring for the planet.

At the Washington United Youth Center, the Stingrays disconnected from the world to connect with each other. In a “Write Your Story”activity, students participated in various projects within small groups facilitated by student leaders. One of these activities was inspired by their Women’s Place Project (WPP). They had the opportunity to reflect on themselves, their relationships, their environments and their values through journaling. Using those contemplations, the Class of 2026 designed and decorated plates representing their own lives. Students learned that they were in charge of building their futures and writing their stories. The day also focused on service, with the Stingrays completing their Sister Project. They collected $1500 and over 15,000 physical items, and spent time during the day to pack hygiene kits for Sacred Heart Community Service. 

Freshman Breakaway Day is a rite of passage for all Notre Dame students — and for good reason. It emphasizes the idea of “the city as a classroom,” further teaching them what they need to know for life.