Out of the Office - Work Retreat

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Each summer, our office does an office retreat to do some team bonding, setting goals for the year and celebrating what we've accomplished with some learning aspects. 

This year, we started on campus for a few exercises with the group and self-assessments. We drew a number as we walked in to see where we would sit for the morning. We had time to get settled in, get snacks/breakfast and chat with our new table mates. There were a few group exercises and personality tests to try out, which are always interesting. It's fun getting a new perspective on how everyone's minds work and solve problems. 

After the morning sessions, we took a team photo. 

 

Then, it was time for the next half of our day! We went downtown to House of Flowers, where we had a flower workshop — We picked out a pot and a plant, then got to work making sure they were securely in there, just right. This time, we were able to sit anywhere so I sat with my Team Swelce gals. It was very therapeutic playing with dirt and chatting with our team. We also learned a bit more on caring for our plants and the types of plants.






Our activity ended a lot earlier, so we had time to hang out. I was starting to not feel well at all - a headache, cramps and the like. I mainly just sat at our table and chatted with a few people. It was too hot outside to go anywhere so we stayed in until we were able to go across the street to our next stop. 

Finally, the last stop of the day was Alfredo's Pizza. We had a group discussion with each of the departments talking through their goals and each of us sharing what we're proud of from the academic year. It was fun to hear from everyone and think forward to what's next. It's not often that you're able to stop and reflect, so this was a chance to do that. 

Then, it was time for some pizza and hanging out. We snacked on pizza, appetizers and mocktails. But, after awhile, we were wiped out...So, Athena gave me a ride to my car and I went home to relax. It was a fun, but busy day. We had a packed schedule and the heat, even though we weren't in it much, was draining. 

Here's to the next year and the goals ahead! 


-Shelby



 

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