By: Fiona '25

Last month, the Class of 2027 ventured on their Sophomore Breakaway Day and Interdisciplinary Field Trip. This two-day retreat took place at the Dominican Center in Fremont and the de Young Museum in San Francisco, respectively. There, the Ravens bonded while reflecting both mentally and spiritually. 

For Sophomore Breakaway Day, Notre Dame’s Campus Ministry hosted and led the Ravens through various activities. The day was filled with reflection, creativity and bonding. Conversations were focused on building community, exploring their spirituality and spending time in nature. A team of juniors and seniors served as student leaders to guide the Ravens on their reflection journey. 

At the de Young Museum, sophomores freely roamed the building to admire various pieces of art. From sculptures to portraits, the students explored different mediums of creativity. The Ravens had the opportunity to ask and discuss questions surrounding art, touching upon its meaning and how it makes them feel. Additionally, this experience allowed them to identify connections and applications between the art, their integrated humanities curriculum and this year’s ND Reads selection, Everything She Touched: The Life of Ruth Asawa by acclaimed journalist, Marilyn Chase. 

In conjunction with the de Young Museum trip, the Career and Life Success program hosted local artists on campus to speak with students about career opportunities in the arts. ND alum Gaby Sandoval '19 spoke about her work as a comic artist, illustrator and business owner. Alyssarhaye Graciano spoke about her career as an artist, published author, business owner and curator at MACLA. 

Notre Dame’s retreats provide students with a chance to disconnect from their typically busy school schedule and come together for activities and self-reflection. The Ravens’ visit to the Dominican Center and the De Young Museum helped them understand the importance of connection—both with themselves and the world around them.