Discover Summit

Discover Summit 2024 logo

Life has a way of throwing us into the unknown whether we like it or not. You've probably experienced that yourself recently.

But here's the thing: you are braver than you know, and the skills to face down uncertainty can be developed.

That's what Discover Summit is for.

There's a tension you feel when you aren't sure exactly what you want to study in college, and it can seem like you are lost or have been left behind. But just like professional climbers, there's a common lingo and some tools that—once you know them—can help you find your way.

This overnight event is designed to connect you with the resources and community you need to turn what seems like an unclimbable mountain of decisions into your next, great accomplishment. Get ready to blaze your own trail with a new set of friends who—like you—are still discovering which major is the best fit for them, as you engage in meaningful sessions and explore campus and the surrounding area.

Students attending the Bridge Program CAN also attend this event. Please indicate that on your registration.

There are limited spaces for this event. Spots fill up quickly, so we encourage you to sign up before May.

Friday, May 31, 2024

1:30 p.m.	Check-In & Meet Your Trail Family Get to know a small group of fellow students who may be at different points in the journey than you are but who share your desire to discover their calling.
2 p.m.	Trailhead Meet university and Discover program leadership, learn what to expect from the day, and take your first steps down a new trail.
2:15 p.m.	Waypost 1: The GPS or the Compass with Jon Merryman, Director of Alumni Relations (B.A., 2000)
3 p.m.	Depart for Lake DeGray Resort
3:20 p.m.	Make Camp Settle into your room with your temporary roommate.
4 p.m.	Orienteering Session Make a map of where you are now and utilize tools to plot a course forward.
4:45 p.m.	Waypost 2: The Shortcut or the Scenic Route with Ouachita Alumni
5:30 p.m.	Depart for Dinner at Fat Boys
6:45 p.m.	Depart for Lake DeGray Resort
7 p.m.	Sunset Cruise
8:30 p.m.	Get to Know You S’more
9:15 p.m.	Side Trail with Your Trail Family Pick from a number of fun game options to close out the night.
11 p.m.	Hiker's Midnight Return to rooms and get some sleep!

Saturday, June 1, 2024

8:45 a.m.	Breakfast
9 a.m.	Final Waypost: The Journey or the Destination with Adam Wheat, Director of Career & Calling (B.A., 2010)
9:40 a.m.	Depart for Lighthouse Ministries
10 a.m.	Project: Serve
11:30 a.m.	Noon It (Lunch) Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Bluff, overlooking the Ouachita River.
12:30 p.m.	The Summit Stories of the day and a meaningful time of commitment with your trail family
1 p.m.	The Descent Dismiss & head back home

This is not a hiking event. Sessions are just thematically named with hiker jargon. Check out more fun terms.

Some activities or times may change slightly before the event.

For the workshop portion on Friday, dress appropriately to meet faculty, staff and alumni professionals.
You will have time to change for activities at the DeGray Lake Resort.
On Saturday, dress comfortably for working outside in the spring.
Make sure to wear shoes or boots made for walking!
You will be staying at a lovely resort, to which our staff will transport you, so please pack the clothes and toiletries you need. Limited replacements may be available in the resort lobby.
Turn the retreat into a weekend of fun by checking out some more of the area! Find restaurants, attractions and more.