In the morning, we walked together to the campus' sport complex for a surprise physical activity: a football-bootcamp where we all endured three hours of various physically demanding activities and a touch football game. Lunch went by at lightning speed after the morning of constantly running around.
Before we knew it, it was nighttime and it was time for our final conference. This conference was unlike all the the other, more academic ones this month -- all the staff members shared an intimate piece of their lives that they felt had really shaped them. It felt like it lead all members in that room to another plane of interpretation on their lives, relationships with each other and inevitably, brought everyone closer together. The intimacy between everyone advanced as all the Shads stood in a line, holding one piece of long string that we had to grasp onto as we travelled to the next building (where our group activity would be held).
As we made our way slowly to the Kruger building, I'm positive we appeared to be a cult since everyone had their Shad Laval t-shirts or sweaters with the hood on. Upon arrival, we all received electrical-look-alike candles (rather than using actual candles = good risk management), and sat in a tight circle. The moment was truly magical as everyone shared their dreams and promises for the future.
Today is the second last day of creating beautiful memories with these 49 wonderful Shads. However, today with all it's diverse activities, undoubtedly was the perfect way to end the final 'program' day.
Jade Choy, Shad Valley Laval '11
Hometown: Mississauga, ON
