Reflections from Grade 12 Retreat 2025
Last week, St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) graduating class members took part in the annual Grade 12 retreat at St. Jerome’s College at the University of Waterloo.
The retreat’s theme was ‘M-Pact’, connecting to the SMCS outdoor education theme of our impact at St. Michael’s and in the world. This retreat culminated their SMCS journey, focusing on their personal growth and preparation for the future.
Several alumni returned to share their impact on the world and share stories, including Adrian Spagnolo ’02, Michael Bazzocchi ’09, AJ Fraser ’22, AJ Irving ’24, Andrew Miranda ’24, and Lukas Kovar ’24. In addition to our alumni, dynamic speaker and entrepreneur Samir Mourani, returned to share inspirational words with our graduating class.
Their talks focused on celebrating individuality, navigating challenges of post-secondary life, as well as embracing failure and using resiliency to move towards success. This retreat fostered connection, meaningful discussions, and how to leave a positive impact in the world.
Here are a few student reflections from the retreat:
The grad retreat was an amazing final getaway before university, giving us time to reflect, bond, and enjoy one last moment together. Inspiring guest speakers shared valuable life lessons, making the experience both meaningful and memorable. It truly celebrated the end of high school in the best way possible.
– Giuseppe D’Addese:
The Grad Retreat was a really great way to reflect on my journey at St. Michael’s College School and recognize the profound impact the school has had on my life.
– Giacomo Amantea
During the Grade 12 Retreat, many things became apparent. Most significantly is the unfortunate fact that our time together here with friends is limited. Whether I continue to be in contact with them in the future is unclear, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned in this retreat, it’s to be present. Be in the moment, because all moments will end. But for now, don’t take anything for granted!
– Edward Teng
This retreat has been an amazing opportunity to reflect on and appreciate my experience at St. Mike’s. Having the chance to connect with my graduating classmates and hearing from many great speakers helps me prepare for the next step after my time at St. Mike’s is over.
– Matthew Kmecz
The opportunity provided to us Grade 12s during the retreat has greatly impacted me and the rest of the graduating class. Thinking back on the impact our class has had on the younger generations is not something I normally would have considered, but now I realize the profound effect all of us have had on this school and allowed us one last chance to bond as a graduating class!
– Kieran Cline
At the Grade 12 Grad retreat this year, I made new connections and strengthened my pre-existing connections as well. I was able to bond with some of my classmates who I haven’t interacted as much in school with due to different classes, or different extracurriculars. I also enjoyed the keynote speaker and listened to some of his podcasts after on mental health.
– Edward Wayland
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