Reflections from Our Vocation Retreat
Our Vocation Retreat in Winston-Salem was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our spring semester. We spent the weekend with the Winston-Salem Fellows in their communal living space, and from the moment we arrived, we were met with extraordinary hospitality. They welcomed us warmly, creating an environment that was both restful and deeply engaging.
Throughout the weekend, we participated in several sessions focused on vocation and discernment, including a review of our results from the Highlands Ability Battery. These conversations invited us to reflect more intentionally on who we are, how we are uniquely wired, and how that wiring might shape our future work. As we prepare to graduate from the Fellows program, it felt especially timely to consider how our strengths, motivations, and natural abilities align with potential career paths.
On a personal level, the retreat provided meaningful clarity. I gained insight into the types of job placements and work environments where I am most likely to thrive—as well as those that may not be the best fit. This perspective has already proven invaluable as I begin the process of searching for jobs beyond the program. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by endless possibilities, I now feel better equipped to pursue opportunities with intention and confidence.
One of my greatest takeaways from the weekend was the reminder that personality and aptitude assessments do not define us. Instead, they serve as helpful tools—guides that inform our decision-making without limiting who we are or who we may become. Our identities are far richer and more dynamic than any test result, yet these tools can illuminate patterns that help us move forward wisely.
Of course, the retreat was not only about structured sessions. Some of the sweetest moments happened in between—playing games, watching movies, venturing outside to enjoy the snow, and sharing meals around the table. These simple, joyful rhythms of life together allowed us to build deeper friendships and gain a fuller glimpse into the daily lives of our Winston-Salem friends. In every sense, the weekend was both formative and life-giving. It offered clarity for the future while grounding us in meaningful community—a combination that made the retreat truly unforgettable.
With hope,
Katie Avery